Squamish RCMP along with Squamish Fire Services is issuing a warning regarding the use of accelerants on fires to the Squamish Community. In the last week and a half Squamish RCMP, Squamish Fire Services, and BCAS have attended to three separate incidents of accelerant use on fires which resulted in over half a dozen injuries and left one man in critical condition.
Squamish RCMP was notified of the first incident on March 4th where three individuals were injured when gasoline was poured on a bonfire in Brackendale. The next two calls were received on March 16th. The first was on Lewis Drive where two people were seriously injured after, what was thought to be paint thinner, was poured on an open fire causing the container to burst into flames. One man remains in critical condition. The second was a campfire at a park in Brackendale where a girl suffered extensive burns after an accelerant was poured on the fire, again igniting the container, and spreading the flames.
“All incidents are being investigated by the Squamish RCMP, and those who are responsible may be facing criminal charges” stated Corporal Sascha Banks. “We are extremely concerned about the number of incidents reported and educating the public on fire safety is paramount to prevent further injuries.”
Squamish Fire Chief Bill Stoner along with Squamish Fire Rescue is in engaged with the Squamish RCMP and the Squamish community as a whole for education and prevention on this issue. “Pouring flammable liquids on burning fires may seem like an inconsequential event, but this action can create extreme fire conditions which may cause excruciating burns and possible disfigurement. The consequences could stay with a person for life; it’s not worth the risk” stated Chief Stoner.
If anyone has any questions regarding Fire Safety please contact the Squamish Fire Rescue at sfr@squamish.ca or call 604-898-9666. Those with information which may contribute to the RCMP investigation are asked to call the Squamish RCMP at 604-892-6100 or if they wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, text 274637, or go to www.solvecrime.ca
