Quote:
Originally Posted by Keith P.
One of the recently constructed stick-built apartments on Hanwell Drive in Middle Sackville was declared a total loss after a fire last night that apparently began on a balcony spread rapidly through the upper floor. Thankfully no residents were lost. 185 people were displaced.
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I haven't heard an exact cause yet, but yesterday the media was saying that it likely started on a deck. It seems that perhaps fire code for large buildings housing many people should be re-examined to make these things more fire resistant, if we are going to continue to allow large buildings to be constructed of wood.
I don't want to speculate excessively, but if something simple like a lit cigarette butt or other small external fire can literally destroy a large apartment building, then the codes aren't strong enough. Even if the cause was something more severe, it shouldn't have been able to spread so quickly and severely as it did. At least the fire alarms worked as they should.
There was also some indication on a firefighters' facebook page that available firefighting staff was inadequate, and the media was reporting that the hydrants were not supplying adequate water pressure as well.
Lots to unpack here, but it's a shame that something catastrophic has to happen before the conversations start. At least, as you say, no (human) lives were lost.
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