On Saturday morning, a propane fire broke out at a construction site in northeast Edmonton, awakening residents with its bright flames and thick smoke. Antoinette Dick, who lived nearby, described how she was startled awake by the fire just before 4 a.m. The blaze, reportedly fueled by commercial propane heaters, was so fierce that firefighters noted flames shooting up to 50 feet into the air upon their arrival.

First responders were alerted to potential explosions in the area, though fire officials later clarified that they could not confirm any actual explosion had occurred. Evacuations were ordered for about 20 nearby residents, including Dick, as a precautionary measure. Crews from the propane company also arrived to assist in controlling the fire and ensuring the situation was stabilized and safe for returning residents.

Local neighbors expressed relief that the fire event, while alarming, did not result in more serious consequences. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety measures at construction sites, particularly when dealing with hazardous materials like propane. First District Chief Cory Cremer emphasized the dangers posed by the fire and the swift response of emergency services, preventing a potentially more catastrophic outcome from what could have been a larger explosion.