The cause of an explosion and fire in a detached garage on Springwood Crescent S.E. July 18 is still under investigation, according to Airdrie Fire Department (AFD) Deputy Chief Garth Rabel.
“The investigation is still ongoing,” he said. “It appears that fuel or something ignited with a heat source and caused the explosion. (The resident) was doing some mechanical work on some vehicles.”
Rabel said the Fire Investigation Bureau will continue to investigate and it could be some time before a cause is known.
Rabel said residents in the area heard a pair of small explosions just before 11:30 a.m. and calls were made to 9-1-1 to dispatch fire crews to the scene.
The explosions blew the door of the large 26 foot by 26 foot detached garage off its rails and caused significant fire damage to two walls.
A resident of the home was not seriously injured in the incident.
“The gentlemen was not in the building at the time of the first explosion,” Rabel said. “He was exposed – it was hot in there and there was a lot of toxic gas. He was assessed by Alberta Health Services on scene but not transported and his injuries were deemed to be minor.”
To prevent any further issues, Rabel said ATCO Gas turned off gas to the garage.
“It remains off until repairs can be completed,” he said. “(It was turned off) specifically to the garage. (Other residences) are not impacted.”
Rabel said he had no information about the cost of the damages to the garage.
It’s a good opportunity to remind people of the importance of working safely, he added.
“We just want people to be very, very cautious,” he said. “Make sure if they’re doing any backyard or mechanical maintenance (to) follow the safety procedures. Work in a well-ventilated area, whether you’re painting or whatever.”
