Fire Forces Two-Day Closure of Fort Pitt Grammar School

A fire erupted at the Fort Pitt Grammar School for Girls in Chatham early this morning, prompting the school to close for two days. Emergency services received the call shortly before 1:00 AM and dispatched six fire engines to the scene. The blaze originated in the canteen kitchen, where firefighters used hose reel jets to extinguish the flames.

The fire was contained to the canteen area, but smoke spread throughout the building, necessitating the closure for ventilation and cleaning. Fire crews remained on site until just before 2:30 AM to ensure the situation was fully under control. In an email to parents, school administrators confirmed that the school would remain closed to all students and staff on Monday and Tuesday.

The statement from the school outlined the circumstances surrounding the incident: “In the early hours of the morning, a fire broke out in the canteen kitchen. The fire has been contained to the canteen area only. However, smoke has spread, requiring us to close for ventilation and to clean.” Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and initial investigations suggest an electrical fault may have caused the fire.

This incident follows another fire in July at the adjacent facility, the former University College for the Creative Arts (UCA), which was suspected to be an act of arson. The repeated incidents raise concerns about safety measures in the area.

Parents and guardians are advised to monitor communications from the school for updates regarding the reopening and any further actions that may be required.