Balcony Fire - 300 Block of Girgulis Crescent
At 5:45 a.m. on August 19, 2023, the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a balcony on fire in the 300 Block of Girgulis Crescent. Caller reported that fire extinguishers were used in an attempt to put the fire out but didn't think it was extinguished.
Three fire engines, one ladder truck, one rescue unit and the Battalion Chief were dispatched. First arriving fire crews reported a small fire on a balcony on the ground floor of a multi residential apartment building. All incoming fire crews were assigned their tactical duties.
One male sustained minor burns to a hand and was treated by SFD paramedics. The patient's care was later turned over to the ambulance service. Two others were treated for lacerations to their hands sustained from breaking the protective cover of the fire extinguisher cabinets.
Fire was brought under control at 6:13 a.m.
The Fire Investigator was requested to attend. Cause and origin examination is concluded. Fire originated on the first floor balcony and extended to the 2nd floor balcony. Cause of the fire was from improper disposal of smoking material. Damage is estimated at $20,000.
While the fire extinguishers used did not completely extinguish the fire, the suppression product slowed down the growth of the fire. SFD wants to remind everyone to use an acceptable receptacle when disposing of smoking material such as a glass jar with water in it and a lid.