WESTMONT - A worker using a torch accidentally set a bus seat on fire causing a Jan. 2 blaze at the First Student bus company in Westmont, according to a Westmont news release.
Firefighters from Westmont and surrounding communities required about 20 minutes to extinguished the blaze at 250 W. 63rd St. The bus was inside of the building when the fire started.
Firefighters were dispatched at 2:55 p.m. and witnessed heavy black smoke coming from the rear of the building. The fire was under control and extinguished at 3:15 p.m., the release state. The building was declared uninhabitable due to smoke and water damage.
The building’s fire alarm was activated as was the sprinkler system. A First Student supervisor alerted all building occupants to evacuate. One individual suffered smoke inhalation and was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital, according to the release.
Fire Department personnel have been in contact with First Student regarding specific steps needed to re-occupy the building for business. The Westmont Fire Department estimates the fire caused more than $150,000 in damages.
The Westmont Fire Department was assisted by Downers Grove, Clarendon Hills and Tri-State fire departments.