An overgrown cedar tree proved to be a fire hazard for a commercial building in Railtown.
Nelson Fire Rescue responded to an exterior fire at The Art of Brewing on Railway Street today at 11:30 a.m. The building tenant had done his best to extinguish the flame, but the firefighters' thermal imaging camera revealed some hot spots along the roofline, which they eliminated with foam and water.
Crews then went into the attic of the building and confirmed the fire was fully suppressed.
In media release, Nelson Fire Rescue captain Jeff Hebert noted that the fire appeared to have originated in some cedar trees that were deteriorating the exterior of the building.
"Nelson Fire Rescue would like to remind the public of the fire hazard that ornamental conifer trees present to structures," wrote Hebert, citing Fire Smart principles that suggest shrubs such as cedar and juniper be no closer than 10 meters from homes.
Six firefighters responded to the Railway Street fire, bringing with them one fire engine, one ladder truck, and one command vehicle.
The fire is still under investigation.
For more information on how you can protect your home from hazardous shrubs/trees call Nelson Fire Rescue at 250-352-3103 or visit firesmartcanada.ca.