Lift Community Services (Lift) thanked emergency services and community partners for their prompt assistance in responding to a fire and subsequent flood at its supportive housing building on January 26.
According to a media release from Lift, the fire, which started in an apartment unit, prompted the sprinkler system and resulted in flooding on the second floor of the building. The building was evacuated, and Lift confirms that all participants and staff were safely evacuated.
“We’re extremely grateful to our staff for getting participants out of the building in a safe and timely manner, and for the prompt response from the fire department,” stated Lift executive director Kim Markel.
Lift confirms that eight participants were initially displaced because of the flood, and that Lift is providing alternative shelter to those individuals who require repairs to their apartments.
According to an account from Powell River Fire Rescue (PRFR), firefighters responded to a structure fire at the local supportive housing facility. The fire was called in to 911 at 5 pm and crews arrived on scene within four minutes.
“Thanks to the rapid response and coordinated efforts of the 19 PRFR members that responded, no injuries were reported and the fire was brought under control quickly,” stated deputy chief Rocky Swanson.
Fire chief Martin Drakeley acted as incident commander during the response. Upon arrival, crews were informed by the facility manager of a fire in a room on the second floor. Initial inspection revealed multiple sprinkler and smoke zones had been activated.
A 360-degree assessment of the building was completed, and crews established a water supply while deploying a hose line to the affected area. Additional teams checked the floor below to ensure the safety of residents sheltering in place, according to the release.
Emergency Social Services (ESS) was contacted to support the approximately 32 displaced residents. BC Transit dispatched buses for temporary shelter, however, after consultation with the facility manager, it was determined they were not required. Crews also shut off the sprinkler system on the second floor to minimize water damage.
Powell River RCMP provided assistance by working with facility staff to locate residents with special needs, the release stated. After a walkthrough with the facility manager, it was determined that residents could return to their units once the building was deemed safe.
An investigation conducted the following day by Swanson confirmed the fire was accidental.
“This incident highlights the value of quick response by fire crews and other agencies,” stated Swanson. “Their combined efforts ensured the safety of all residents and minimized the impact of the fire. A special thanks goes out to the facility maintenance manager, who is always very quick to correct any issues.”
Powell River Fire Rescue acknowledged the efforts of everyone involved and remains dedicated to the safety and well-being of the community, the release stated.
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