A shorted-out light switch is being blamed for a fire that briefly forced the evacuation of the Lied Jungle at the Henry Doorly Zoo late Monday morning.
At around 11:15 a.m. a fire was detected by employees in a lower level, off-exhibit office area. Employees quickly put it out using a nearby fire extinguisher. Although there were no zoo guests or animals in immediate danger, staff members immediately evacuated guests and staff from the entire Lied Jungle and associated offices, TreeTops Restaurant, Guest Service area and Ticketing as a precaution.
The fire detection system in the Lied Jungle sounded an alarm in the building and notified the Omaha Fire Department. Guests were allowed back in the Lied Jungle by 12:20 p.m.
The TreeTops Restaurant will remain closed for the rest of the day, but will be open for normal business hours Tuesday.