An electrical failure is likely the cause of the fire which consumed two homes on Sheep River Place over the Labour Day weekend, according to the Town and fire department.
At approximately 4:15 p.m. on Sept. 4, Okotoks Fire responded to the 300-block of Sheep River Place for reports of a house fire.
According to a press release, firefighters were on scene within eight minutes of the initial call. Upon arrival, the first crew placed a call for additional resources as several structures were ablaze.
Fire and rescue said it is grateful for the mutual aid agreements with Foothills County, High River and Black Diamond, which provided additional firefighters and equipment to quell the flames.
Two homes were lost in the fire while adjacent homes suffered limited damage. There were no injuries reported as a result of the incident.
Specific information about the type of electrical failure responsible for the fire is not currently available as further investigation into the matter continues.
Online fundraisers have been launched to support the Okotokians affected by the fire.
Michella Sawatzky's co-workers at Okotoks Montessori Preschool started a GoFundMe to help the educator rebuild. It can be found here.
Jayce Godbout also started a fundraising page on behalf of himself, his mom Rachel and brother Jaxon, after they lost everything in the blaze. It can be found here.
The Town would like to remind residents to review and follow owner's manuals for various electric items which can pose a risk. These include electric vehicles, cell phones, tablets, scooters, hoverboards and bicycles.
Okotoks Fire and Rescue also offers free home risk assessments to all homeowners. To schedule a home risk assessment, email [email protected] and enter home risk assessment in the subject line along with a name, address and phone number. Appointments can also be made by calling the fire station at 403-938-4066.
