UPDATE: The Humboldt and District Fire Department has determined the cause of the fire. It was unintentional and began due to improperly disposed smoking materials on a fourth-floor balcony.
The department noted the operational building safety systems all contributed to the ability to quickly extinguish the fire and to get everybody out safely, as the building alarm system, the smoke alarm in the initial suite, and the emergency lighting were all in working order at the time of the fire, while the fire separation in the attic space was also in good condition.
Meanwhile, there are still former occupants of the condo complex who are in search of secure long-term housing and in need of personal and household items. Anybody wishing to donate items to these displaced residents can email hopeinhardshipHAC@gmail.com, which is being monitored by the Humboldt Alliance Church. Anyone who may also be able to provide long-term rental units (12 months or longer) can contact PARTNERS at 306-682-4135.
Original Story
The cause of an early morning fire, at a 24 unit condo complex in Humboldt, remains under investigation.
On Thursday, just after 12:30a.m., the City’s Fire Department was dispatched to 607-10th Street.
The fire began on the balcony of a unit in the top southwest corner of the building and quickly spread to the attic.
Thankfully, local firefighters were able to prevent the fire from spreading and had it contained on the top floor by around 3 a.m.
A total of 38 residents were safely evacuated, assessed on scene by paramedics, and treated as necessary.
The Pioneer Hotel in town also provided the residents with accommodations for the rest of the night.
Meanwhile, the Red Cross has attended to short-term assistance and will continue to do so for the next couple of days, while the Humboldt Housing Authority has offered housing over the course of the next few months while reconstruction takes place.
“The City of Humboldt wishes to thank Humboldt’s dedicated emergency services, the Pioneer Hotel, the Red Cross, and Humboldt Housing Authority for their immediate care and attention,” it read in a statement to northeastNOW.
northeastNOW will continue to update the story should any additional details be provided.
–
news@northeastnow.com
On Twitter @BenTompkins_8
