Chilliwack firefighters battled to contain a fire that started in the centre unit of a Garrison fourplex Wednesday afternoon. One unit was completely gutted. Two other homes suffered considerable smoke and water damage.
Residents were not home when the fire broke out. One firefighter was slightly injured when debris fell on her neck and back.
The fire started just before 5 p.m. in a fourplex in the 45000 block of Tamihi Way.
Smoke could be seen spiraling skyward as firefighters rushed to the scene. When they arrived they found flames shooting from the roof of the two-storey townhome and beginning to spread to adjacent units.
Crews from Firehalls 1, 4 and 6 responded. They managed to slow the fire’s progress, but not before considerable fire, smoke and water damage was done to three of the four units.
Emergency Social Services attended and assisted with emergency accommodations, and food for a number of adults and children.
A number of lizards survived the incident and firefighters continue to look for a number of cats.
Salvation Army attended to provide food for the firefighters.
Cause of the fire is under investigation by Chilliwack’s fire investigators, but considered accidental. Neighbours at the scene suggested either a barbecue or an air conditioning unit on the back balcony.
