1 person escapes as afternoon fire destroys single-family home in Long River, P.E.I.
Blaze was intensified by strong winds, says New London fire Chief Scott Mintie
A single-family home in a rural community in P.E.I.'s Queens County was destroyed by fire on Monday afternoon.
Chief Scott Mintie of the New London Fire Department said the department responded to a report about a fire in the Long River area at about 2 p.m. When firefighters got there, the house was already fully engulfed in flames.
"There were high winds from the south-southwest. They're estimated about 35 km/h, and this did contribute to the rapid spread of the fire," Mintie said. "This is a strong reminder that emergencies can escalate quickly, especially in windy conditions."
One person was inside the home at the time but managed to get out safely. That person was taken to hospital as a precaution to be checked for smoke inhalation.
A vehicle in the driveway was also damaged, and a small spot fire caused by flying embers was quickly extinguished.
Crews were able to bring the blaze under control by 3:15 p.m.
The Kensington Fire Department was also called in to help. No injuries were reported among responding fire crews, Mintie said.
"It's critical that every home has a working smoke alarm and a fire escape plan that the whole family understands and practises," he added. "[In] situations like today, seconds do matter. The occupant's ability to quickly exit most likely prevented a far more tragic outcome."