LAC LA BICHE - A Beaver Hill Road fuel station and convenience store was the scene of an emergency response on Wednesday night as police, fire and utility vehicles were called to reports of a structure fire.
Lac La Biche County Regional Fire Chief John Kokotilo said fortunately when first responders arrived, it was quickly determined to be more of a smoke issue than fire. When crews arrived, staff had left the building and were waiting outside near the fuel pumps as smoke filled a portion of the business.
Peace officers and fire officials went into the building a determined the smoke was likely linked to an electrical issue with a piece of equipment.
“Smoke appeared evident at the rear part of the building,” Kokotilo told Lakeland Today, “it was discovered to be emitting from a condensate tray on one of the industrial coolers.”
He explained the problem was likely dust and some debris that had accumulated on the tray.
The store remained closed while firefighters and store owners investigated for any hot-spots or additional issues. The store was again open for business the next morning.
During the call-out, some motorists continued to use the pumps at the gas station, even as firefighters in full equipment dragged water hoses past them.
When asked about the fuel pumps, Kokotilo said he was not aware — but it would be “something to discuss.”
No one was injured in the incident. The owners of the business were advised to have the cooling unit serviced prior to its re-use.
