An early morning fire at a southeast-end deli could have been a lot worse had it not been for a working sprinkler system, according to London fire officials.
Fire crews were called to the Slavyanka Deli at 1086 Commissioners Rd. E at Pond Mills Road just before 7 a.m. Thursday after smoke was spotted coming from the business. Firefighters forced their way inside and found a fire in the back of the deli. They were able to quickly extinguish the flames.
"The unit had extensive smoke damage, as did the dry cleaner and the Subway restaurant next door," said Platoon Chief Colin Shewell. "Crews were quick to contain the fire, but the smoke was the culprit for the damage that was caused."
Damage is estimated at between $200,000 and $250,000. But it could have been much worse, noted Shewell.
"When crews arrived on scene there was water coming out, so the sprinkler system was activated prior to our arrival," said Shewell. "This could have been a lot worse if that fire had extended from that business to the adjacent businesses. We are thankful the sprinklers worked as intended."
No one was hurt in the blaze.
A fire investigator has attended the scene and fire officials said the cause is believed to be electrical.
