A downtown Chilliwack apartment building was destroyed by fire Saturday afternoon (April 19), when flames moved into the attic space of the building.
While nobody was injured, the fire damage is so extensive that no residents will be able to return home, said Krista Minar, assistant fire chief.
The fire, at The Fairhaven on the corner of Corbould Street and Kipp Avenue, started about 3:30 p.m. Multiple people called in reports of flames and smoke coming from the top-floor deck and roof of the four-storey building.
"Due to the visible fire conditions and risk to life and property, a second alarm was initiated," Minar said in a press release late Saturday night.
All of Chilliwack's firehalls responded.
"Upon arrival, crews were met with heavy smoke and visible flames venting from the building’s eaves, while evacuation was already underway and alarms sounding."
She said the crews initiated an "aggressive fire attack" and searched the building to ensure everyone got out safely.
A water supply was quickly established, with both aerial apparatuses deployed to cool the upper sections of the structure, she added.
"Despite an intensive firefighting effort, the unprotected attic space —offering ample fuel and oxygen —allowed the fire to move rapidly through the attic along the length of the building," Minar said. "This made the fire particularly challenging to suppress."
RCMP, BC Emergency Health Services (BCAS), FortisBC, BC Hydro, and BC Transit were on scene, and Emergency Support Services (ESS) was also there to provide support to displaced residents.
"Thankfully, no injuries to the public or firefighters were reported," she confirmed. "Unfortunately, the damage to the building is extensive, with significant fire and water damage throughout. At this time, no residents will be able to return home."
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Chilliwack Fire Department.
Minar said the incident serves as a strong reminder that fire safety planning and regular drills are critical in apartment buildings.
"It’s essential that building owners/managers take an active role in educating residents on fire safety and ensuring that life-safety systems are properly maintained," she said "These proactive measures make a vital difference in protecting lives."
