Image: M. Vanden Bosch / Fraser Valley Today

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

Fire Response

Updated: Unattended candle leads to townhouse fire on South Sumas Road next to Tyson Elementary in Chilliwack

Dec 15, 2023 | 12:03 PM

CHILLIWACK — The Chilliwack Fire Department has responded to a fire in strata units along South Sumas Road.

The fire was first reported shortly before 11:30 a.m. Friday (Dec. 15) at 45160 South Sumas Road.

The units are located near Tyson Elementary School, however the school was not threatened. However, a witness has told Fraser Valley Today that the students would not be allowed to leave the school building over the lunch hour because of the proximity of the fire fighting efforts and the school’s playground along with the dangers that may be associated with the smoke in the air.

Image: Chilliwack Fire Department responds to fire at strata-units at 45160 South Sumas Road Friday (Dec. 15).

At least two fire halls responded in an attempt to halt the fire in its tracks and limit damage to surrounding properties.

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According to a statement from Chief Ian Josephson of the Chilliwack Fire Department, 24 firefighters from Chilliwack fire halls 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 responded at 11:18 a.m. to a fire in a single-storey townhouse complex. Fire crews arrived on scene to fire venting from the one unit’s ground floor rear windows. Firefighters managed to quickly knock the fire down and enter the building to extinguish the fire and confirm the fire had not extended past the one unit. There was significant fire, smoke and water damage to the one townhouse. There was minor smoke damage to the adjacent units. There were no firefighter injuries. BCEHS paramedics arrived on scene to assess the lone female homeowner for possible smoke inhalation and she was transported to CGH.

Chief Josephson said Emergency Support Services (ESS) attended to provide support for the displaced owner. The cause of the fire was accidental and related to an unattended candle.

“Chilliwack Fire Department reminds residents to never leave burning candles unattended,” Fire Chief Josephson said. “Candles should be in sturdy, noncombustible holders and all combustibles should be kept at least 30cm (1 foot) away from the candle(s). We also remind residents to ensure they have working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be tested regularly.”