Five people have been displaced, and one dog has died after a house fire in Sooke’s Town Centre on the afternoon of June 3.
Emergency crews responded to the structure fire on Felton Lane at about 4:10 p.m. Two occupants of the single-family home were safely evacuated and treated for smoke inhalation at the scene.
The fire caused significant damage to the property, but firefighters prevented it from spreading to neighbouring properties.
Members of Sooke Fire Rescue had assistance from the Otter Point Volunteer Fire Department, Metchosin Fire Department and East Sooke Fire Department. Sooke RCMP and BC Ambulance Service also responded to the scene.
A portion of Sooke Road was closed for about 90 minutes while emergency crews battled the blaze, causing traffic disruptions during the evening commute. Crews remained at the scene for several hours.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The Office of the Fire Commissioner has been notified and is assisting with the investigation, which officials say could take several weeks to complete.
While firefighters were responding to the structure fire, a second fire was reported on Otter Point Road at approximately 4:30 p.m.
That brush fire was quickly extinguished and contained to an area measuring about 12 by 12 feet.
Early indications suggest the fire was caused by the spontaneous combustion of organic material, according to the District of Sooke. Officials said compost, mulch, broom and other piled yard waste can generate and retain heat, creating conditions that may lead to ignition without an external flame.
The district noted the local fire danger rating was listed as high that day, despite light rainfall in the previous 24 hours.
“We are grateful for the effective and coordinated response from our crews and mutual aid partners, as well as the support of Sooke RCMP and BC Ambulance,” Deputy Chief Chris McCrea said. “We also want to thank the public for their patience while Sooke Road was closed and traffic was detoured during the evening commute.”
McCrea said responding to two separate fires simultaneously required strong coordination between fire departments and emergency agencies.
The district is reminding residents to exercise caution during dry conditions and to report fires immediately by calling the emergency line. In addition, drivers are reminded not to drive over fire hoses unless directed by emergency personnel, noting the practice can damage equipment, interrupt water supplies and create hazards for firefighters and the public.