Investigators have closed the 
book on a massive fire that heavily damaged three business in Chatham.
Over the weekend, a blaze ripped through 701 St Clair Street, gutting Ideal Decorating, Sacwal Flooring, and the Lighting and Accent Gallery.
The fire burned for nearly 11 hours and despite the efforts of over 50 firefighters the damage to the building was significant.
While the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office has deemed the blaze accidental, local officials say it highlights the importance of having proper sprinkler systems.
The back of the building was protected by a sprinkler system, which with the work of local fire fighters protected a large area of the building.
You can see the difference in the damage done in these photos, showing sections of the building that either had or lacked a sprinkler system.
