No injuries are being reported following a structure fire at a Fairmont Hot Springs duplex this morning.
Columbia Valley Rural Fire and Rescue Services crews arrived to find smoke coming from the home after a chimney fire extended into the attic, two occupants and their dogs were evacuated safely.
Firefighters were able to prevent the fire from progressing and the home sustained little damage.
The fire is not considered suspicious, firefighters ask that you have your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year.
See a statement from the Regional District of East Kootenay below:
Firefighters remain on scene this morning after a structure fire at a duplex in Fairmont.
Firefighters arrived to find a significant amount of smoke coming from the home, where a chimney fire had extended into the attic space. “The extremely hard work of the responders on scene prevented the fire from progressing and saved the home with little damage,” explains Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Service Assistant Chief Joss Advocaat. “Two occupants and their two dogs evacuated the building and are safe.”
Firefighters from the Fairmont Fire Department responded to the call along with members from the Windermere Fire Department with mutual aid for the ladder truck. RCMP, BC Ambulance Service and BC Hydro also provided support at the scene.
The fire is not considered suspicious, and the home has been turned back to the owner.
“We have already seen a great deal of destruction this winter due to chimney fires,” adds Advocaat. “It’s important that residents keep chimneys clear of animal nests, leaves, and residue to ensure proper venting.”
Residents are asked to have chimneys cleaned and inspected by a qualified technician at least annually or more with increased use.
– Article includes statement and photo supplied by Regional District of East Kootenay
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