Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Kristen Bailey
October 31, 2021 - 8:42 AM
Emergency crews are on scene of a fire in a Vernon gymnastics club.
Witness Kristen Bailey said she saw fire trucks and more were arriving at the North Valley Gymnastics building on 31 Street.
She reported the scene at roughly 7:30 a.m. this morning, Oct. 31. Photos show flames coming out of the building and residents are reporting heavy smoke in the area.
Vernon Fire Rescue Services is currently responding to a "major structure fire" in the north end of the city.
At approximately 7:15 a.m., firefighters were dispatched to a report of a fire at the gymnastics studio. Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed the building was already heavily involved, according to a press release issued by the city.
“At this time, it is too dangerous for crews to enter the building so we are using a defensive strategy to keep the fire contained to the single structure,” said fire chief David Lind, in the press release. “Please stay away from the area for the safety of crews and the public, and to ensure emergency responders have appropriate access to move around the site as needed.”
The fire department has a ladder truck, two engines and approximately 20 firefighters responding to the fire.
The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, BC Ambulance Service, BC Hydro and Fortis BC are also on scene.
The fire is adjacent to the railway tracks and railway officials have been notified of the emergency. No injuries have been reported in the incident, according to the city.
- This story was updated at 9 a.m. to include more information from the fire department.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Kristen Bailey
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