Penticton Lifts Evacuation Order Following Destruction of Long-Term Care Facility by Fire

📅 4 days ago

Penticton has lifted its evacuation order and state of emergency after a fire destroyed the construction site intended for a long-term care home. Investigations are ongoing while a crane at the site has been confirmed stable.

In Penticton, British Columbia, the city has officially lifted a state of local emergency and canceled an evacuation order approximately one week after a significant fire devastated the site of a planned long-term care home. The fire, which occurred at 453 Green Ave., was reported last Wednesday at the construction location designated for a three-storey facility intended to accommodate 200 beds aimed at addressing regional care needs.
Health Minister Josie Osborne expressed the gravity of the situation, stating that the incident is 'devastating to seniors in the region' and will necessitate a reset of the project. The local government had previously declared a state of emergency and mandated the evacuation of ten nearby properties to ensure public safety.
The city has indicated that ongoing investigations into the fire will be conducted by the RCMP alongside the local fire department. Concerns were raised regarding an unstable crane that was being utilized during the construction process, with officials warning it could pose a safety risk. However, Kristen Dixon, director of the emergency operations center, confirmed that the crane has since been assessed as stable and can remain on-site while the contractor develops a strategy for dismantling the damaged structure.
In light of the incident, city officials have stated that Highway 97 will be reopened fully as soon as conditions allow, although Green Avenue will remain closed until further notice. Dixon extended sympathies to those affected by the fire and thanked the evacuees for their patience during the past week as safety measures were implemented. The city's response underscores the importance of safety and preparedness in construction projects, particularly those involving critical infrastructure like long-term care facilities.

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