UPDATED SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 8 A.M.:
Quick action from Vernon Fire Rescue Services prevented significant damage as the result of a Saturday night bush fire that spread to a neighbouring building.
Shortly before 9:30 p.m. April 25, firefighters were dispatched to the 3400 block of 35th Avenue. Upon arrival, crews found a large juniper bush on fire on the south side of the Priest Valley Gymnasium.
“By the time crews arrived, the fire had already extended to the building and was active in the roof – which is made of cedar shakes,” said Deputy Chief Scott Hemstad. “Firefighters quickly pulled off a line and knocked the fire down on the roof before it could extend too far into the building and then extinguished the bush below.”
Once the fire was out, crews were seen pulling shingles off the corner of the structure to confirm there were no other flames or hot spots in the attic.
Career and Auxiliary Firefighters, RCMP, BC Ambulance Service and BC Hydro all responded to the scene.
“Thanks to the close proximity to the fire station and the quick action of our Firefighters, damage was contained to one small portion of the building,” said Deputy Chief Hemstad. “As for the cause of the fire, it’s too early to tell where or how it began. We have turned the scene over to the RCMP, who are now investigating.”
ORIGINAL STORY:
Firefighters responded to reports of a structure fire Saturday evening near the Priest Valley Arena and Vernon Boxing Club on 35th Avenue.
RCMP on scene said a cedar bush on the premises was fully involved.
The fire was quickly doused.
Reports of the fire came in around 9:30 p.m. Saturday, April 25.
#VernonBC Crews responding to 3404 35th Ave for a structure fire
— Central Okanagan Scanner (@ScanKelowna) April 26, 2020
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