Safe Harbour Society clients and staff were among the first to come to the aid of the victims of Thursday's explosion at the nearby Prairie Bus Lines building.
At about 3:22 p.m. Red Deer Emergency Services and RCMP were called to the explosion and fire at 5310 54 St. where five individuals were transported to Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre, two with critical injuries who were flown elsewhere for treatment, two were treated at local hospital, and one was released Thursday night.
All those injured were employees at the Railyards site.
Perry Goddard, Safe Harbour executive director, said emergency services workers were incredibly quick to respond, but before they arrived about eight clients and staff ran over to assist those who were injured.
"Some of the people who were sleeping rough rushed over with the blankets and tarps to make sure everyone stayed warm. In fact, at least one of the guests ran into the burning building and pulled some of the victims out who were on fire at the time," said Goddard, adding that one client was a former firefighter.
He said with the collective efforts of emergency responders, as well as the quick actions of Safe Harbour clients and staff "lives were definitely saved."
Some people have actually been known to throw garbage at Safe Harbour's homeless clients, Goddard lamented.
"Combined with our staff, these are the heroes of our community."
Goddard added Safe Harbour will be providing ongoing support to staff and clients, considering what they witnessed and dealt with.
The explosion was so powerful it was felt at Safe Harbour where staff thought a vehicle had struck the building.
Assistant deputy chief Cole Starling, with Red Deer Emergency Services, said the explosion happened in the bus maintenance area of the building. A sprinkler was activated in the area, and the fire didn't spread beyond that space.
"Our thoughts are with the families and workers who were impacted by this incident," Starling said.
Fire crews continued their work until midnight. The investigation into the cause of the explosion began Friday.
"A thorough investigation will be conducted between the City of Red Deer Emergency Services and Occupational Health and Safety," said Starling, who called the incident unprecedented and showed the professionalism and dedication of crews.
He said personnel will continue to maintain a presence as the investigation continues, and there will be limited access to area.
Starling added there was no safety or environmental impact stretching beyond the Prairie Bus Lines property.
Goddard said it was unfortunate that members of the public ignored the request from officials to stay away from the scene on Thursday.
"There were so many people coming here, gawking, filming, and posting online that even some of the emergency services had trouble getting to the people. It's really unfortunate despite the pleas to stay away."
