Investigators Determine Cause of Canora Gardens Fire

August 02, 2012

Fire investigators say the fire at Canora Gardens seniors complex on July 31, 2012 started when a stovetop element was accidentally turned on and ignited a cardboard box. The box had been placed on the stovetop while an occupant was moving into the suite.

Officials estimate the three-alarm fire caused approximately $1.5 million in damages, including extensive fire damage to the second-floor suite where it started and a common hallway on the same floor. The remaining suites on the second floor and the stairway leading to the third also sustained smoke damage.

It has been confirmed the individual who died in the blaze was a woman in her 70s. She was not a resident of the suite where the fire started. Alberta Health Services EMS also transported a total of 10 patients to hospital to be treated for varying degrees of smoke inhalation. The City of Edmonton has no more information for release about the fatality or the patients.

Residents and their families should call GEF Seniors Housing, the non-profit organization managing Canora Gardens, at 780-482-6561 for information about when they can access their suites. Media can also contact GEF Seniors Housing for other updates related to the building and interim plans to accommodate residents displaced by the fire.

 

For more information:

Tim Wilson

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services

Title	Public Information Officer
Telephone	780-496-3600 780-886-3335