COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office says the fire at Wolf Lodge was started by grease accumulation. The investigation showed a breach in the flue pipe above the kitchen’s wood-fired grill allowed an accumulation of grease to form on the flue piping and inside the attic.
The build-up of grease ignited and spread to the remainder of the building. The fire was classified as accidental.
When deputies arrived at the fire, they found people on the roof of the building trying to extinguish the flames with a garden hose.
The State Fire Marshal encouraged businesses to provide proper maintenance for all cooking equipment by a reputable contractor. They added that the level of use should determine the frequency of system cleaning.
The fire started on Labor Day when the restaurant was closed to the public, but employees were on site for a cookout.