The Bristol Press – Fire on the roof of KindCare building was successfully contained
BRISTOL — A fire on the roof of the KindCare building on North Main Street was successfully contained Wednesday, says Fire Chief Richard Hart.
Hart said the fire was reported at 11:28 a.m. Wednesday. Motor one was on the road immediately afterwards and the local fire brigade responded to the scene.
“We had a fire on the roof,” Hart said just after noon. “The roofing material and insulation caught fire. But we were able to contain it to the roof. It didn’t extend down.”
Hart leaked this information to the press from the roof of the KindCare building. The fire was out, he said, but there was still “a lot of smoke” at the time.
KindCare also posted information about the fire on their Facebook page.
“We would like to draw your attention to a minor incident that occurred this morning, December 12, at approximately 10:30 am,” the post reads. “While using torches to heat adhesive on the roof of the Kindcare building currently under construction, the adhesive caught fire. As with any rubber material, this resulted in what appeared to be a lot of smoke rising from the top of the property. Luckily this was more smoke than fire and was easily put out with snow by the Wohlsen polishers who were on the roof. Just as quickly, Bristol Fire Brigade were on the scene and sprayed the area to ensure there was no additional smoke or flames. Kindcare of Bristol would like to acknowledge and thank Bristol Fire Brigade for their quick response and the City of Bristol for their support. From 11:00 a.m. the construction site was back to normal with no additional delays. We are once again proud to be a part of the city of Bristol and grateful that this incident was minor and isolated and no one was injured.”
KindCare has renovated the 60,000-square-foot, five-story building at 430 N. Main St. that was formerly a Rite Aid, with plans to open a new assisted living facility early next year.
Executive Director Eric Maack said the facility, which includes a memorial care unit, bistro, cinema and salon, will provide care, housing and activities for up to 117 people. They are targeting a workforce of 60 people for a variety of positions including nursing, housekeeping, kitchen and more.
KindCare also plans to give back to the community with monthly “acts of kindness.” On Thanksgiving, Maack brought 60 pot pies to the Agape House.
Brian M. Johnson can be reached at 860-973-1806 or [email protected]
