Image: Coquitlam RCMP / Coquitlam RCMP say it's still not safe to go near the site of Saturday's fire that gutted Hazel Trembath Elementary School in Port Coquitlam due to what police say is potentially hazardous air quality caused by the fire.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Port Coquitlam school fire

Lower Mainland RCMP say it’s still not safe to go near site of Port Coquitlam school fire

Oct 17, 2023 | 3:05 PM

PORT COQUITLAM — Coquitlam RCMP say it’s still not safe to go near the site of Saturday’s fire that gutted Hazel Trembath Elementary School in Port Coquitlam due to what police say is potentially hazardous air quality caused by the fire.

According to a news release from police Tuesday (Oct. 17), authorities say the public can expect road closures along Confederation Drive for several days as the investigation continues.

The hazardous air quality from the fire is expected to linger for several days. The public is reminded to be cognizant of shifting wind patterns that may cause smoke to change directions within the neighbourhood.

Out of an abundance of caution, the public is asked to avoid attending the Hazel Trembath Elementary School. Police are asking neighbouring residents to avoid going outdoors and close any windows and doors to limit their air exposure.

Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding the fire, who have not spoken to our officers to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550, said Sergeant Karrie Ellis of the Coquitlam RCMP General Investigation Section. Anyone who may have video of the incident or witnessed any suspicious activity between 9:00 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023 and 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2023 is asked to reach out to our investigators.

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The file has been assumed by Coquitlam RCMP General Investigation Section (GIS).

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2023-27725.