The Mayor of Sylvan Lake says her heart goes out to the families affected by a huge blaze that destroyed four homes and damaged seven others Tuesday night in that community.
“The loss they have suffered is incredible and I sincerely sympathize with the pain and frustration they are experiencing at this time,” Susan Samson said in a news release issued this morning.
Sometime around 5 p.m., police were called out to a report of an explosion at the corner of Wildrose Drive and Windward Place. One neighbour reported hearing propane tank explosions about every 10 minutes. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is not yet known.
Sylvan Lake RCMP Cpl Malcolm Callihoo said two houses were already engulfed in flames when he responded to a 5 p.m. call of a possible explosion.
About 35 volunteer firefighters from Sylvan Lake battled the fire, along with help from Red Deer County.
Fire Chief Cliff Brausen is expected to hold a news conference late this afternoon once the fire investigation is finished.
“This was a substantial blow to our community,” Brausen said. “The effort put forward by our volunteer department was incredible – and we are relieved no one was injured during the height of the fire.”
Onlookers are reminded there is an active investigation underway and to respect the boundaries set by emergency personnel.
Samson said she was struck by the magnitude of the fire, but was proud of how emergency services responded to the fire.
“We live in a tight-knit community and I am confident we will all pull together to help these families through this difficult time.”
More photos from Tuesday fire in Sylvan Lake
Do you have photos from this event? Email them to Advocate online editor Leo Paré at lpare@www.reddeeradvocate.com and we'll include them in a gallery to share with readers.