Propane tanks explode, no one hurt in Cambridge encampment fire
Posted Nov 29, 2023 04:23:48 PM.
Last Updated Nov 29, 2023 05:52:10 PM.
Smoke could be seen billowing from the side of Highway 401 through Cambridge on Wednesday after a fire and explosion at an encampment.
Waterloo Regional Police said emergency services were called to a fire in a wooded area around 12 p.m.
The Cambridge Fire Department said the fire was situated south of the 401 and west of Hespeler Road, and that tents were observed at the site.
The fire involved propane BBQ tanks and some exploded. No one was hurt in the blast.
Once the fire was put out, Cambridge by-law was called in.
The City of Cambridge later confirmed that by-law staff have been in contact with the property owners regarding the site.
“The city’s focus continues to be on assisting people in encampments and connecting them with the region’s outreach team and more appropriate housing and community supports,” read an e-mail statement to CityNews Kitchener. “Together with our regional and community partners, we work towards long-term solutions for housing affordability.”
Due to the extent of the fire and smoke, eastbound 401 lanes were briefly closed in the area as crews responded to the scene.
