Two-alarm fire forces Coquitlam couple from home
Posted May 21, 2016 7:35 am.
Last Updated May 21, 2016 7:38 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
COQUITLAM (NEWS 1130) – A home on Nelson Street near Delestre Avenue in Coquitlam has been destroyed in a two-alarm fire this morning and crews say it serves as a good reminder to always phone 911 in case of emergency.
The fire department says had they been called earlier the damage may not have been as severe. And that’s because when the fire started, the homeowner tried to put it out himself which led to a delay in calling first responders.
“I think [the homeowner] felt he had the fire out and then he was looking for another extinguisher somewhere else, wandering through his home and I think in that time the fire had extended up through the walls and then he realized that it was now bigger than he could handle and out the door they went,” explains Assistant Fire Chief Gary Mulligan.
He understands it may be instinct to try and douse the flames yourself, but adds you are better off phoning them instead of risking it.
“Make that call first, get out and let the professionals get there as fast we can. These delays really cost us time. The fire gets a good hold and it gets out of control very rapidly.”
And that’s what happened in this case — when they got there the first floor and attic was fully engulfed.
The two seniors inside have been treated for smoke inhalation.
The fire started in the living room. The cause is under investigation although the homeowner told crews he had been having issues with his electrical lately.
