By rdnewsNOW staff

Vanier Woods apartment building evacuated for balcony fire

Jun 11, 2018 | 3:00 PM

A balcony fire led th the evacuation of an apartment building in Vanier Woods East late Friday night. 

The building at 39 Van Slyke Way was evacuated at approximately 11 p.m. Residents were allowed back inside about an hour later after firefighters attended to the blaze.

Officials say the fire was the result of improperly stored cardboard catching on fire during a barbeque. The balcony’s overhead sprinkler system was activated and kept the fire under control.

Officials say without the sprinkler head on the balcony, the fire would likely have spread to the combustible siding, putting the building and tenants at further risk.

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Red Deer Emergency Services Fire Prevention Bureau reminds residents that June is one of the peak months for barbeque fires. They ask you to please consider:

– Propane and charcoal barbeques should only be used outdoors
– The barbeque should be placed at least one metre from combustible materials
– Keep children and pets at least one metre away from the barbeque
– Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and the trays below
– Never leave a lit barbeque unattended
– Always make sure your gas barebeque lid is open before lighting it

Residents are invited to contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 403-346-5511 or prevention@reddeer.ca with any questions or concerns.