Kiln Fire Closes New Canaan Elementary School For Day: FD

NEW CANAAN, CT — West Elementary School is closed Tuesday due to a fire that broke out in the kiln room within the school's art room Monday night, according to fire officials.

In a news release, Fire Chief Albert Bassett said crews were called to the school, located on Ponus Ridge Road, around 10 p.m. after receiving a report of an activated fire alarm.

Crews soon found the fire in an art room, which firefighters were able to quickly extinguish and stop from extending beyond the art room, Bassett said.

The fire, which originated in a kiln room within the art room, only damaged art supplies and furniture in the room because the door to the kiln was properly closed, according to Bassett.

The art room also sustained minor smoke and water damage, Bassett said.

The fire was caused by a combustible wooden supplies cart coming in contact with one of the operating kilns, according to Bassett.

Stamford, Pound Ridge, Noroton Heights and Wilton fire departments provided assistance, Bassett said. No injuries were reported.

"Remember, closing doors limits fire growth and spread," Bassett said in a news release. "Doors that self-close should not be propped open and clear of obstructions to allow proper closure. BBedroom doors should always be closed before you doze."