A billowing cloud of black smoke could be seen above Saanich as fire crews battled what they said was a “significant structure fire” on Elk Road Tuesday.
No one was injured and the cause of the fire is unknown. A captain with Saanich’s fire department says the blaze required a full department response, after at least a dozen propane bottles exploded inside.
“There was some flame impingement on the house, but crews managed to get hose on that — and they mitigated the issues to the main house, but the shop structure is a total loss.”
The cause of the fire under investigation.
Saanich Fire Department tweeted at 4:17 p.m. that its crews were battling a fire with “involved exposures” in the 4800-block of Elk Road, near Interurban and West Saanich roads.
At the time, people were being asked to avoid the area.
A CHEK News reporter roughly 300 metres from the scene of the fire said it appeared to have broken out at a shop separate from the main home. There was no apparent danger to neighbouring properties on West Saanich Road.
Four people who were not firefighters could be seen outside of the structure. Ambulances were present, but two ambulances could be seen leaving without their lights on at around 4:40 p.m.
Crews are battling a significant structure fire with involved exposures in the 4800 block of Elk Road. Please avoid the area of Interurban and West Saanich Road. bh
— Saanich Fire Department (@SaanichFire) April 25, 2023
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“You will see some smoke in the area, and we’re providing support as needed,” said police spokesman Const. Markus Anastasiadeshe.
He added police were requested to attend the scene on behalf of the Saanich Fire Department to assist with traffic control and any other support.
Jeff Lawrence
