A fire broke out in a basement apartment in Saskatoon on Tuesday evening, causing significant damage to the unit.
According to the Saskatoon Fire Department, the blaze was reported at around 6:30 p.m. in the 100 block of Avenue O South. Firefighters arrived on the scene to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the basement apartment.
Crews quickly worked to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighboring units. The fire was brought under control within an hour, but not before causing extensive damage to the apartment.
Fortunately, no one was injured in the fire. The tenant of the basement apartment was not home at the time of the incident, and the occupants of the other units were able to evacuate safely.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but officials believe it may have started in the kitchen area of the apartment. The estimated cost of damages is currently unknown.
The Saskatoon Fire Department is reminding residents to always have working smoke alarms in their homes and to have a fire escape plan in case of emergencies. They also urge people to never leave cooking unattended and to ensure all appliances are turned off when not in use.
The Red Cross has been contacted to assist the tenant of the damaged apartment with temporary housing and other necessities.
The affected building has been deemed uninhabitable until repairs can be made. The other units in the building were not affected by the fire and residents were able to return to their homes.
The Saskatoon Fire Department is commending the quick response and efforts of the firefighters in containing the fire and preventing further damage. They also thank the community for their cooperation and support during the incident.
As the investigation continues, more information will be released. In the meantime, residents are reminded to always prioritize safety and to be prepared for any emergency situations.
