Update: 1:25 p.m.
A fire that consumed a West Kelowna home Thursday (March 4) morning has been deemed accidental.
West Kelowna Fire Rescue explained in an update Thursday afternoon that the fire was related to cooking activities on the lower level.
Further details have also surfaced regarding the firefighter who was injured in a structure fire Thursday morning.
According to West Kelowna Fire Rescue chief Jason Brolund, the firefighter fell through the burned floor, to the basement. Although the rapid intervention team was deployed, he was able to rescue himself. After being transported to hospital and assessed, he was released to recover at home from a knee and back injury.
“The public is reminded to check their smoke alarms as they can save you from fire, especially while you are asleep,” Brolund said.
Update: 10:06 a.m.
The West Kelowna firefighter injured in a blaze this morning has been released from hospital.
According to West Kelowna Fire Rescue, he suffered minor injures after falling through a burnt section of flooring.
Following this, the Rapid Intervention Team was deployed to help out the member.
“Quick action by C-shift to bring him to safety,” they stated on Twitter.
Original:
An early-morning structure fire in West Kelowna resulted in the injury of a firefighter, and the death of two pets.
Just after 3 a.m. this morning (March 4) West Kelowna Fire Rescue responded to the structure fire on Ponderosa Rd. When crews arrived, they found the rear of the home to be engulfed in flames.
“Firefighters attacked the flames and entered the building to search for any occupants,” said Fire Chief Jason Brolund in a statement.
According to Brolund, one pet was found by firefighters, but two other pets did not survive. One firefighter was injured and is being assessed.
Crews responded in full force with four engines, one ladder truck and three support vehicles, totalling 21 crew.
Five individuals were displaced, and are in the care of BC Emergency Support Services.
“The cause of the fire is under investigation. Fire Investigators will commence a fire and cause determination investigation later today,” Brolund said.
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