WESTLOCK – Thanks to the quick action of nearby Busby School contract workers, two dogs were saved during a Wednesday-afternoon house fire.
Fire and emergency crews were called to Highway 651 at 50th Street in the Hamlet of Busby at 4:27 p.m. Oct. 19 after receiving a 911 call from workers who noticed smoke coming from the home.
“They banged on the doors and tried to see if anybody was home and at that time nobody answered the door, so they dialled 911,” said Westlock County manager of protective services John Biro. "They heard what sounded like a dog inside, so they ended up kicking the door in to try to get the dog out,” he added, noting the smoke was too much for the rescuers, who then opened a second door and called out to the dogs in an attempt to rescue them.
Fire crews soon arrived on scene and save the dogs during their primary search.
“We still weren’t sure if there were any other victims, it was still undetermined if anybody was inside,” said Biro. “They came across the two dogs and pulled them outside and they were both showing signs of breathing distress and at that time our community peace officers were requested so they could transport the dogs to the vet if required.”
Fire damage to the home was minimal but there was smoke damage throughout, he noted, adding the fire was quickly under control because it was caught early.
“There’s definitely a lot of smoke damage throughout the home, which is going to need specialized cleaning,” said Biro, noting a young family with an infant live there and may need some assistance with some items such as clothing.
Biro said their investigation continues, but noted they’re looking at a small appliance as a possible cause.
