Richmond Fire-Rescue (RFR) is warning of the dangers of vacant homes after 18 firefighters from six fire trucks battled a blaze last week.
The crews were called out last Thursday at 4 a.m. to a house fire in a vacant home on No. 4 Road. It took them around 40 minutes to put out the fire.
Now RFR is asking homeowners to take extra precautions if they intend to leave their property unattended for a lengthy period of time.
"It is important for property owners to be diligent in their efforts to secure their vacant homes to eliminate the possibility of a dwelling fire or illegal activities occurring," said deputy chief Kim Howell.
"Securing your vacant properties helps to keep the community safe and reduces the risk for emergency responders."
Owners of vacant property can avoid potential hazards by following a few easy steps, according to RFR.
? Remove combustibles from inside and outside of the building, lock all windows and doors and board them up snugly with plywood and erect fencing panels around the perimeter of the property.
? Fencing panels should be a minimum height of two metres (six feet) and sustain security by cutting off access to the building.
? RFR suggests that if you see a property that seems to be vacant, unattended or in some way derelict, contact the non-emergency number to advise of the situation. The phone numbers are Richmond Fire-Rescue 604-278-5131, RCMP 604-278-1212, City of Richmond bylaw 604-2048631 or go to the City of Richmond website for more information on abandoned/vacant properties.
