Sprinkler system credited with controlling Fairgrounds grandstand fire

ROCHESTER - An extensive sprinkler system helped to knock down a fire that ignited in the Rochester Fairgrounds grandstand on Monday night.

Firefighters received a report of a visible fire around 9:05 p.m., shortly after which an automatic alarm was also received for water flow in the sprinkler system.

When firefighters arrived they found the grandstand with nothing showing from the rear of the building, although alarms were sounding. Upon further investigation, the sprinkler system was found to be activated in the lower area and seating area, with fire located in a blocked-off enclosed stairway, according to a release from the city on Tuesday.

The fire had extended under the seating area and burned through the floor, but it was apparent that multiple sprinkler heads had activated, extinguishing most of the active fire and stopping its spread.

The fire was deemed fully extinguished at 10:23 p.m.

There were no injuries. The property owner and management representatives were on scene to address the property's needs.

The fire is under investigation by the Rochester Fire Department.

Rochester Fire was assisted on the scene by the Rochester Police, and off-duty Rochester firefighters provided station coverage.