Prioritizing safety has led to residents not returning to Pioneer Lodge after a fire broke out on Sept. 9.
Lloydminster Fire Chief, Aaron Buckingham, says there are many factors involved when dealing this type of situation.
"A fire such as this one is very complex to handle as there are many things to consider," he explains. "You train and plan for incidents such as these, hoping to never have to put the plan to use."
"Thankfully, this situation was contained quickly and efficiently."
Dozens of emergency services personnel and staff on the scene successfully evacuated nearly 200 residents.
Many of those individuals were then picked up from a nearby location to spend time with family. Others were placed in hotels while the next steps to getting the Lodge back up and running are figured out.
According to Lloydminster Region Housing Group CEO, Stephanie Miller, the Lodge is working with partners to determine the next steps, including when residents can come home.
"Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of Pioneer Lodge residents and employees, and we will only resume normal operations once we are confident it is safe to do so," said Miller. "We will provide updates as soon as we have more concrete information."
They are implementing a plan to minimize disruption to residents' daily lives. This includes inspections, addressing necessary repairs, and developing a clear plan for residents' return. According to Miller, prioritizing safety needs to be first and foremost going forward.
"We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work through this process, moving forward, our focus will be on ensuring the safety and comfort of residents and employees," said Miller. "In the meantime, we are coordinating closely with residents, families, and caregivers to provide alternative accommodations and support. We are committed to keeping everyone informed as we make progress."
The Response
The cause was confirmed by Miller to be an electrical fire in the attic. However, some portions of the facility have received water and smoke damage, limiting occupancy for the time being. Professionals are being consulted, and work to repair the building will be underway soon.
Coun. Michael Diachuk, who sits on the facility's board, said the emergency response was great.
"It was an amazing response ... it was a horrible situation that couldn't have gone better," said Diachuk. "The fire department was able to get there quickly, find out where the fire was and contain it."
The fire occurred in an older section of the Lodge, which they hope to replace, according to Diachuk.
Additionally, he wanted people to know the firewalls designed in the building did their job in containing the fire.
He credits Miller, her professional staff, and all the agencies for helping this situation go as smoothy as it did. Something Miller agrees with.
"We are incredibly grateful to the first responders who acted swiftly and effectively to contain the fire and ensure the safety of residents. Their professionalism and quick response were instrumental in preventing further damage and protecting lives," said Miller.
"I am also incredibly proud of the Pioneer team for their quick actions to ensure all residents were evacuated safely. The dedication and care they showed during this emergency reflect the heart of our organization."
In the end, the organization wants to thank the community for its support during this time. Although there is no timeline, it commits to keeping everyone updated on the progress.
Read more: Emergency crews at Pioneer Lodge Lloyd
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