Fire crews were called out twice for structure fires in downtown Chilliwack Thursday (June 20), within a couple of hours of each other.
The first incident saw Chilliwack Fire Department responding to the smell of smoke at about 5:15 p.m., to Chilies Restaurant, in the 46000 block of Yale Road near Nowell Street.
"Crews, who were nearby, quickly assessed the situation and upgraded the event to a structure fire," reported assistant chief Krista Minar.
Approximately 30 firefighters from Halls 1, 2, 4, and 6 responded, securing a water supply, finding the source of the fire and putting it out.
"We would like to extend our appreciation to motorists and pedestrians that follow traffic control measures put in place to allow firefighters to work safely and effectively."
RCMP and BC emergency health services were on scene, but there were no injuries reported. The structure sustained minor damage but there was significant smoke damage.
"As crews were moving into the final stages of mopping up on Yale Road and some units were returning to their halls, a second fire was reported at approximately 7:40 p.m. in the 46000 block of Princess Avenue.
Crew found smoke and flames shooting from the second-story balcony of the apartment building.
Approximately 45 firefighters responded.
"Due to the swift action of fire crews at the scene, combined with the first arriving unit being in close proximity, the damage was successfully limited to three of 12 units."
All occupants were evacuated from the building safely.
RCMP assisted on the scene, and Emergency Support Services were activated to help the families displaced by the fire. There were no reported injuries among firefighters or occupants, at this second incident either.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
"For both incidents, the Chilliwack Fire Department extends its gratitude to all supporting agencies and the public for their cooperation and understanding during these emergencies."
Video and photos captured flames climbing to second-floor suite of at Arcadia Arms, the three-storey apartment building.
By 8:30 p.m., residents were sitting on the sidewalks around the complex, while fire crews, BC Hydro, paramedics and others cleaned up the site.
