08/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/08/2024 06:45
Investigations and recovery efforts continue, following the crane collapse and fires in the Dunbar-Southlands neighbourhood.
At the time of the incident, Vancouver Emergency Support Services External website, opens in new tab (ESS) staff and volunteers registered approximately 81 people who had been evacuated from their homes and required assistance.
All residents may now return home with the exception of five homes, which are unsafe to occupy. Residents of these five homes who have not registered with ESS should register by calling 3-1-1 as soon as possible. ESS continues to support residents who cannot return home with short-term basic supports.
BC Hydro has restored power to the area and the City has dispatched sanitation teams to clean up debris from the fire. The debris is not considered a significant health concern for most people. Those who would like to clean up debris themselves should ensure that they have the proper personal safety equipment.
Anyone with underlying breathing conditions should consider staying away from the area until clean-up is completed.
The health and safety of residents, all workers involved and the community remain a top priority, as efforts to remove the collapsed crane are underway. This is a joint effort involving the property owner, qualified contractors, the City of Vancouver and relevant agencies including WorkSafeBC, and is expected to begin in the coming days.
Road closures remain in place to ensure safety between W. 40th and 41st avenues and Collingwood and Blenheim streets. Please re-route around the area as necessary and check the City of Vancouver's social media channels for traffic updates.
We ask the public to please respect barriers and avoid the area if possible. Residents returning to their homes are asked to follow directions of crews on site and official posted notices.
If a property has significant damage, fire debris or ash, residents may wish to consult a professional hazardous materials cleanup service or restoration service company to assist in the cleanup.
Individuals who would like to manage any cleanup themselves should use protective equipment such as masks (well-fitted N95 mask recommended), goggles, rubber gloves, boots, long sleeve shirt and pants to prevent exposure to ash and dust. Additionally:
For more health and safety information regarding ash and debris following a fire, please contact Environmental Health at Vancouver Coastal Health, [email protected] or 604-675-3800.
A step-by-step guide for residents returning home is available at:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/evacuation-recovery/emergency-recovery#steps External website, opens in new tab