A family of six has lost their home and their three dogs perished in a house fire Thursday in the District of Highlands.
The fire was reported just before 2 p.m. in the 3000-block of Blue Valley Road.
The Highlands Fire Department called in mutual aid to help fight the flames.
View Royal Fire Chief Paul Hurst said when firefighters arrived, they found a two-storey house engulfed in flames.
“The building is obviously a complete loss,” Hurst said.
“Unfortunately there were three pets inside the home.”
Hurst said crews were initially hampered as propane tanks were venting, including propane tanks in the garage, which caused the fire to accelerate.
A member of the family says they had one 100 gallon propane tank for their fireplace, and three portable propane tanks for their fire pit.
Hurst said six people who live in the house were not home and it was neighbours who reported the fire.
A Gofundme page identifies them as Graeme and Sara and their four children.
It confirms that their three dogs Angel, Dino and Bailey died in the fire. The family says that they also lost four other household pets: a mouse and three fish.
“This fire will be a very difficult blow to a hard-working family who has endured a lot,” a message reads.
“We are hoping to collect funds to help Graeme & Sara support their family during this difficult time.”
Victim Services is assisting also the family.
The cause is under investigation.
Smoke is seen in the Blue Valley Road area following a house fire on Oct. 3, 2019.
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