A house on Raven Crescent in Fort Rupert went up in flames last Monday, June 5.
Port Hardy Fire Rescue responded to the call, where they found heavy smoke from the backside of the single story building upon arrival.
A mutual aid call-out to Port McNeill Fire Rescue and the Coal Harbour Volunteer Fire Department was then initiated.
The fire was quickly brought under control due to a fast and thorough response effort by all crews, and although much of the house was lost, firefighters were able to salvage some important personal items including family photos.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time. No one was injured during the incident.
Overall, firefighters spent approximately eight hours responding to the house fire and cleaning up afterwards.
Fundraisers to help the family, who lost almost everything they owned in the house fire, have already started.
“The family is eternally grateful to everyone who has supported them,” said Sara Child, an advocate for the family. “They are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of support.”
A halibut dinner was held on June 6 at the U’gwamalis Hall in Fort Rupert, which ended up raising $3,000 thanks to the generosity of the local communities.
Child said donations are still needed to help the family get back on their feet. If anyone is able to donate clothes, household items, bedding, coffee tables, utensils, or wish to e-transfer a monetary donation, please contact Child at 250-902-8087 or at saratlilinukw@gmail.com.
- With files from Port Hardy Fire Rescue Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/porthardyfire/.
