No one hurt in Vernon house fire

No one was injured after a house fire caused significant damage to a Vernon property early yesterday evening.

Vernon Fire Rescue Services received a call at 5 p.m. yesterday, Jan. 26, that flames could be seen coming from a house in the 4500 block of Valleyview Place.

Fire crews arrived to find the basement fully engulfed with flames extending to the main floor of the house.

According to a City of Vernon media release, fire crews quickly attacked the fire from the backyard of the house and were quickly able to knock the fire down and gain control.

"Thanks to the quick response and aggressive efforts of our firefighters, the fire was contained and extinguished without incident," deputy fire chief Scott Hemstad said in the release. "No injuries were reported, however, the occupants of the house have been displaced and are receiving assistance from the City’s emergency support services program."

Two fire engines and roughly 20 firefighters extinguished the blaze. The house suffered extensive fire, smoke and water damage.

"During the event, firefighters learned a family cat was missing, but the pet was found safe and sound just a few hours later," Hemstad said.

The cause of the fire has yet to have been determined and an investigation is underway.

During the response a vehicle drove over a fire hydrant hose, which is illegal and can very dangerous to the public and emergency responders. Vernon Fire Rescue Services would like to remind the public to please slow down and avoid areas where an emergency response is taking place.

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