February 15 2023:
At approximately 5:20 a.m. Wednesday, Vernon firefighters responded to a suspicious fire in the 3300 block of Coldstream avenue.
Firefighters from fire stations 1 and 2 quickly discovered a fire that had been set in a pile of wooden pallets and other materials against a rear wall of an enclosed area of Fisher's Hardware.
The fire was already extending up the side of the building.
Crews knocked the fire down quickly.
Fortunately, the fire was contained to the outside of the building but the interior did suffer smoke damage.
The fire could have been far worse.
Deputy Fire Chief Alan Hofsink.
“The business where the fire took place is located next to a multi-story retirement residence. Thanks to the quick and precise action of our firefighters, the fire was contained to the single property and there was no extension or damage to the adjacent structures. This is another example of the excellent service our first responders provide to keep our community safe in dangerous situations.”
No injuries have been reported. The fire is deemed suspicious. RCMP are investigating.
In light of recent fires behind businesses, Chief Hofsink reminded property owners to
"take a close look at their outdoor areas and regularly remove debris, pallets and other combustible materials from their sites, confirm compounds are fully secured, and check dumpsters every day to make sure they are secured and locked. We may not be able to completely eliminate fire risks, but by working together, we can reduce them.”
