VANCOUVER — A major fire at Terminal Forest Products’ Mainland Sawmill in south Vancouver was quickly contained by Vancouver fire crews and a fireboat operating on the Fraser River. According to CBC News, initial reports are that a burning acetylene tank sparked the fire in the basement. It quickly moved up through the centre of the mill to the third floor and was burning through the roof by the time firefighters arrived.
Three employees of the mill were treated for injuries.
Kevin Wilson, assistant chief with Vancouver’s fire services, there is extensive damage to multiple areas of the mill’s interior. CBC News reports that a crane tower in the mill is of particular concern due to the potential for collapse.
According to the website of Terminal Forest Products, the Mainland Sawmill provides premium custom cutting services for high-value, high-grade logs. It employs about 150 people.