After a recent structure fire, West Shore fire departments are reminding residents to have their furnaces and wood stoves regularly checked and serviced, especially during colder months.
Local crews were called to Chief Robert Sam Lane in the Songhees Nation at approximately 7:50 p.m. on Dec. 28 after a fire broke out in a mobile home.
The fire was contained to the furnace because a resident was able to use a fire extinguisher to knock down the blaze before crews arrived on scene.
Eighteen firefighters from View Royal and Colwood responded with two engines, one ladder truck and other station vehicles. They ventilated the building and disconnected the furnace so the residents were able to stay in the home for the night.
Two elderly residents were treated for minor smoke inhalation and released by B.C. Ambulance.
The cause of the fire was undetermined at the ***Gazette's press deadline but View Royal Fire Chief Paul Hurst noted the furnace appeared to have not been serviced for some time.
View Royal fire crews were busy over the Christmas break, attending 18 emergency calls from Dec. 24 to 26.
katie@goldstreamgazette.com