NCFD Puts Out Fire Inside West School Late Monday [UPDATED]

Firefighters late Monday put out a blaze inside West School. 

Alerted by a 10 p.m. fire alarm originating from the Ponus Ridge elementary school, the New Canaan Fire Department found that the fire was contained in an art room, officials say.

“New Canaan firefighters were able to quickly knock down the fire and stop any fire extension from the room of origin,” the department said in a press release. “The fire originated in the kiln room. Fire damage was limited to art supplies and furniture in the room. This was attributed to the properly closed door to the kiln. There was minor smoke and water damage to the art room.”

No one was injured. 

The fire was caused by a combustible (wood) supply cart that had come into contact with an operating kiln, NCFD said in the release. 

The department was supported with mutual aid from fire departments in Stamford, Pound Ridge, N.Y., Noroton Heights and Wilton. 

“Remember closing doors limits fire growth and spread,” the press release said. “Doors that self-close should not be propped open and clear of obstructions to allow proper closure. Bedroom doors should always be closed before you doze.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Bryan Luizzi on Tuesday morning emailed the district to say that, in order to “thoroughly clean the affected area and address any lingering smoke odor,” West will be closed for the day.

All other schools are open as usual, he said.

“Fortunately, due to the inclusion of two additional days in our district calendar beyond state requirements, this missed day will not need to be made up at the end of the school year,” Luizzi said in the email.

He added: “I want to extend my gratitude to the New Canaan Fire Department for their quick and professional response, and to our custodial and maintenance crews for their dedication to restoring the space for our students and staff.”

[Note: This article has been updated with information from the school district.]