(as of 1:15 p.m.)
Firefighters have contained a fire that took place in a boarded up, two-storey house on the corner of Highway 97 (32nd Street) and 39th Avenue Wednesday morning.
Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) was called to a report of a structure fire at approximately 7:30 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters found the building was fully involved and the fire had gotten into the roof.
“Due to the nature of the fire, we have not been able to gain complete access to the interior of the building,” said Deputy Chief Dwight Seymour. “To help us gain additional access, check for hot spots, and aid in the fire investigation, we have had a trackhoe brought in to remove portions of the building.”
Approximately 20 firefighters responded to the scene and managed to contain the fire before it spread to neighbouring structures. Once the fire was under control, several of the firefighters were released from the scene. The VFRS ladder truck and approximately seven crew members are still on site.
The southbound lanes of Highway 97 have been reopened to traffic and only a portion of the east side northbound lane remains closed. Motorists are still encouraged to use an alternative north-south route through Vernon, if possible, and to avoid the area.
No injuries have been reported at this time and the cause of the fire is currently unknown. Vernon North Okanagan RCMP and VFRS investigators are on scene, as well as BC Ambulance Service.
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