Q Barbecue, West Harrison, NY Grease Exhaust Fire

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Grease fire prompts evacuation of Port Chester barbecue

By Aman Ali • The Journal News • April 27, 2008

PORT CHESTER - An explosive grease fire shot through the roof of the Q Barbecue on North Main street today forcing customers to safely evacuate the restaurant.

"I was sitting outside the restaurant in my friend's car and all of a sudden I start seeing lots of smoke," Port Chester resident Eric Snyder, 17, said. "Some people said they heard an explosion and I came running down the street and I saw the streets filled with smoke."

No injuries have been reported. The one-alarm blaze broke out around 6:10 p.m. and was caused by built-up grease in the restaurant's grease exhaust vents, Fire Chief Charles Nielsen said.

"Restaurants are supposed to have their vents clear of grease," Nielsen said. "This is not a common problem."

Within seconds, the fire streaked up the restaurant's vents and reached the rooftops. Firefighters were on the scene shortly after and had the flames out in minutes.

The restaurant has been closed off and it is unclear when it will re-open. Nielsen said the restaurant was moderately damaged with mainly ceiling and vent damage.

Reach Aman Ali at 914-694-5063 or aali@lohud.com.