UPDATE: Frigid weather creates challenges in Boxing Day fire

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The fire chief said the cause of the blaze could not be determined due to damage to the structure and safety of the fire investigators.

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“The entire floor system and roof was compromised making it unsafe to enter,” said Brolund.

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Frigid weather creates challenges on Boxing Day fire
Dec 27, 2021 | 9:10 AM

The occupants of a home in West Kelowna were displaced after a fire in very cold conditions Sunday night.

Just before 9 p.m. on Dec. 26, crews from West Kelowna Fire Rescue responded to reports of a fire inside a home on Menu Road.

The first crew on scene found fire burning inside the walls and concealed spaces of the newly constructed residence.

“The fire spread rapidly and additional crews from all West Kelowna stations responded,” said fire chief Jason Brolund. “Cold weather was a major challenge. Firefighters faced temperatures of -25 C and remain on scene as of 6 a.m. continuing to fight the stubborn fire.”

Brolund said firefighters protected other nearby homes to ensure the fire did not spread. A small number were affected by runoff and ice build up from firefighting operations.

Additional public works crews were brought in to assist with runoff, ice and slippery conditions.

No firefighters or occupants were injured.

The cause of the fire is under investigation and not believed to be suspicious.

“The occupants of the home are staying with others.

“WKFR is grateful for the support of BC Transit who provided a warm bus as a shelter for firefighters during the course of the emergency,” Brolund said.