Just before 7 this morning the Hamilton Fire Department received multiple calls for a house fire at 659 Highway 6, between Concession #4 West and Concession 5 West in Waterdown. When the crew got there they found a two-story frame house fully engulfed in flames Two vehicles in the driveway at the rear of the house were also burning. A large garage directly behind the house was in danger of exposure from the flames. Crews also reported that the south wall of the home had been blown out and live hydro wires were down on the front yard. The location on #6 Highway is not serviced by hydrants, so tanker shuttle operations, utilizing 6 tankers was used to supply water to the scene.
The occupants of the home were currently out of town. While the main body of fire was brought under control within 30 minutes, it took most of the morning to extinguish spot fires and hot spots. The house and the involved vehicles have been severely damaged. Firefighters were able to stop the fire from reaching the exposed garage. Damage is estimated to be in the $1 million dollar range. Given the severity of the fire and suspected explosion, the Ontario Fire Marshals Office has been notified and will be attending as will Technical Safety Standards Association (TSSA).