News Release For immediate release Abasand Fire remains under investigation (Fort McMurray, AB – April 13, 2015) – At 12:51 this morning, Regional Emergency Services were dispatched to a structure fire on Roy Lane in Abasand. Upon arrival, two houses were fully engulfed, while spreading to the roof of a third house. As a result of the fire, four houses and three detached garages have been classified as total losses. Four homes have superficial damage, and a number of other homes have been impacted by radiant heat. There were also five garages involved, three of which are complete losses. Three vehicles and a fifth-wheel also experienced significant damage. In total 27 firefighters worked through the night to contain the fire, and this morning, a crew and equipment still remain on scene. The cause for this fire remains under investigation, and fire investigators will remain on scene in the coming days. “Significant winds were a major contributor to last night’s fire spread in Abasand. Crews worked hard throughout the night, and now our focus shifts to the fire investigation,” said Darby Allen, Regional Fire Chief. RCMP led the evacuation of a number of displaced residents, with the support of Victim Services and Emergency Social Services. A number of these displaced residents have been able to return home.

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Media inquiries: Jillian Smith Public Education Officer Regional Emergency Services jillian.smith@woodbuffalo.ab.ca 780-370-3028