An extensive fire in a Highlands home that saw propane tanks exploding and live power lines brought down was contained before spreading to nearby forested land.
No residents or firefighters were hurt but three family dogs were killed.
The fire reported at just before 2 p.m. Thursday saw View Royal firefighters first on the scene.
Both levels of the single-family home were in flames as well as the sides of the home and the roof, said View Royal Fire Chief Paul Hurst.
Twenty-three firefighters from Highlands, View Royal, Colwood, Langford and Willis Point battled the blaze and prevented the fire from spreading to the nearby forest. An evening rain and the damp weather conditions were cited as helping to prevent the fire’s spread.
Presenting a challenge for the firefighters however was a lack of fire hydrants in the area. Four water tankers were used.
Also on the scene was the B.C. Ambulance Service, B.C. Hydro and West Shore RCMP.
Colwood-View Royal Emergency Support Services attended to offer accommodation and support to the family living at the house.
The fire is under investigation and no cause has been determined.
