UPDATE: Cause of explosive Kamloops shed fire deemed accidental | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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UPDATE: Cause of explosive Kamloops shed fire deemed accidental

Multiple explosions could be heard from a shed fire on Linden Avenue, April 8, 2021 in Kamloops.
Image Credit: FACEBOOK/Kamloops Fire Rescue

The cause of the explosive shed fire on Kamloops's North Shore yesterday, that damaged nearby homes, was likely caused by a malfunctioning battery.

The shed fire was most likely caused by a battery overheating and malfunctioning, said Dean Olstad, chief fire prevention officer. Normal combustible materials in the shed that were highly pressurized paired with open flames led to the explosions.

The fire has been deemed accidental and the shed has been completely destroyed, Olstad said.

Kamloops Fire Rescue platoon captain Darryl Cooper said crews responded to shed fire on Linden Avenue at roughly 5:35 p.m. yesterday,  April 8.

Smoke and flames were highly visible throughout the city. Area residents reported hearing loud bangs.

READ MORE: Massive plume of smoke, flame reported in Kamloops North Shore area

“There was some concern about the (multiple) explosions," Cooper said, adding the force of the explosions damaged neighbouring structures.

The homes' occupants were reported to be safe, he said.

The initial attack was defensive and directed at protecting exposures. Crews were on scene for approximately three and a half hours.

- This story was updated at 10 a.m. to provide the fire's cause.


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