Fire at the Squamish Terminals - Shelter in Place Alert Issued

Updated (9:55 p.m.) Fire update: the Vancouver Fire Boat is now on scene and Squamish Fire Rescue is reporting that the fire is 80% contained. The boat that was in dock has been pulled safely away, and there were no injuries amongst the crew. Squamish Terminals crew are also all accounted for. 

Vancouver Coastal Health is reinforcing the Shelter-in-place message:

• Stay indoors with doors and windows closed;
• Turn off ventilation systems if possible;
• If you must travel outside, cover your nose and mouth with a wet towel;
• Do not try and go out to observe the fire.

Anyone exposed to the smoke who experiences difficulty breathing, particularly those with underlying lung problems such as asthma or emphysema, should seek medical attention immediately.

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(9 p.m.) A fire at the Squamish Terminals has been burning on the east dock since approximately 7 p.m. Emergency responders are on scene and fire boats are en route from Vancouver.

District of Squamish officials are awaiting confirmation from Vancouver Coastal Health on the toxicity levels of the smoke. However, as a precaution, residents should "shelter in place" and stay indoors as the air quality is poor in many parts of the valley.

Shelter-in-place (SIP) is the practice of going or remaining safely indoors during an outdoor release of a hazardous substance. Sheltering-in-place has been shown to be the most effective response during the first few hours of a substance release where the public would be at higher risk outdoors. 

• Get everyone inside immediately, including pets.
• Close all doors and windows.
• Shut down furnace, air conditioners, and exhaust fans and vents.
• Close fireplace dampers.
• If you must travel outside, cover your nose and mouth with a wet towel.

Stay tuned for further information as we can confirm more details. 

April 16, 2015