Update: Residential Structure Fire on Highview Terrace
At 1:38 AM on Sunday, June 9, North Saanich Fire Department, with assistance from Sidney Fire Department and Central Saanich Fire Department, responded to multiple reports of a residential structure fire in the 1100 block of Highview Terrace.
The first arriving officer quickly assessed the situation and escalated the response to a 2nd alarm. All occupants were safely evacuated and accounted for. Due to the fire conditions, a defensive approach was necessary to protect nearby homes and forested areas from ember cast and radiant heat.
North Saanich Engine 1 was redirected to Quatsino Drive to supply water from below the involved structure and protect exposures. Sidney E1, Tower 1, and Central Squad 1 provided relay pumping and manpower from the lower side, operating as Charlie Division under North Saanich Utility 2. Approximately 1600 feet of high-volume hose were used to boost hydrant pressure and overcome elevation challenges.
North Saanich E2, along with Sidney E2, North Saanich E11, Support 1, and NS Chief 2, performed the primary fire attack from the driveway of the involved structure. Deck guns and blitz/ground monitors were used to fight the blaze from outside the collapse zone, containing the fire to the house of origin.
A Rank 1 wildfire was reported early in the event, with small grass fires and some shrubbery ignited by radiant heat. Hand lines and ground monitors from Charlie Division were deployed from rooftops of lower homes, minimizing fire spread.
Despite the total loss of the home where the fire started, the rapid response from all three municipalities provided ample resources, efficiently supported by volunteers and auxiliary members. Approximately 35 firefighters were on scene for several hours.
North Saanich E2 remained on scene throughout the day to extinguish hot spots and monitor the situation. Command staff also utilized the Central Saanich Police’s new aerial drone to monitor conditions during the fire.
We extend our gratitude to our mutual aid partners, BC Emergency Health Services, RCMP, and BC Hydro for their support. Thank you to all individuals involved in responding to this emergency for keeping our community safe.
FireSmart your property: We encourage all folks to read the FireSmart BC Begins at Home Guide to learn how to reduce the potential impacts of wildfire on your home. Taking action to FireSmart your property will decrease the risks of wildfire damaging your home.
You can contact the North Saanich Fire Department for a property assessment to determine mitigation efforts you can take.
Phone: 250-656-1931 (during regular work hours)
Phone: 1-877-537-6725 (after regular work hours; ask for North Saanich Duty Officer)
Fax: 250-656-0906
