A FIRE in a Limestone Coast pub caused about $100,000 worth of damage yesterday morning, with the blaze initially reported to be a false alarm.
Although there was no one on site when the Country Fire Service was alerted, staff at the Bellum Hotel confirmed a fire in the laundry area soon after arriving.
Arriving at the scene, CFS crews found smoke coming from the building and were able to quickly extinguish the blaze.
“The fire was smouldering upon arrival but had already done some damage,” Port MacDonnell CFS captain Grant Fensom said.
“The fire burnt into the roof space but likely died down due to lack of oxygen.
“At this stage the cause of the fire is unconfirmed and is under investigation.”
About 20 firefighters, three appliances and a bulk water carrier were initially deployed to the pub.
The fire comes as temperatures across the nation reach record highs.
With fire season well under way, Mr Fensom said a structure fire could easily turn into a bushfire if not promptly brough under control.
“A bushfire can start from anything,” he said.
“It is not that fact the Bellum is where it is, any structure fire can get out of control and turn into something much bigger – especially during the summer months.
“Things could have been much worse and that comes down to our CFS crews doing what they do best.”
Mr Fensom said he “took his hat off” to the personnel on site during the incident.
“It is quite warm outside and it is hot work,” he said.
“These guys take time away from their lives to attend these incidents voluntarily.
“It is a great way to give back to our community and we always need new faces on board.”
The hotel was closed yesterday due to the damage.
