A fire near Powell River Academy of Music on September 22 has been ruled to be not suspicious.
According to Powell River Fire Rescue deputy chief Rocky Swanson, the fire was set as a result of someone camping at the location between 4100 and 4149 Manson Avenue. The fire was reported at 7 pm.
Swanson said that while it is not legal to have a campfire, the fire was not arson.
According to an earlier account from Swanson, the fire measured approximately 50 metres by 50 metres and presented a substantial threat due to its proximity to the music school.
“The Powell River firefighters demonstrated exceptional competence in effectively managing this challenging situation,” stated Swanson in a media release.
“Our preliminary investigation suggests that the fire was not of natural origin but was manmade. We are actively investigating to ascertain the precise cause."
Swans said the fire department urges the public to exercise caution, as these situations strain resources and expose firefighters to unnecessary dangers.
“I urge the public to remain vigilant about fire safety, particularly during this ongoing dry season,” stated Swanson.
