West Vancouver Fire & Rescue crews have contained a stubborn British Properties fire that caused heavy damage to a home on Friday. The blaze broke out just before 10 a.m. on Westhill Place. Residents called 911 and evacuated safely before firefighters arrived.
Early signs point to the roof area as the fire’s origin. Assistant Chief Jeremy Duncan said flames quickly reached the attic. Crews entered the home to fight the fire from inside. They struggled to get water directly on the flames. The team then switched to a defensive strategy.
“It’s a unique house design with a flat roof,” Duncan said. “Once the roof burned through, we had to go defensive. Defensive work is slower but safer for our crews.”
The home’s damage is likely catastrophic. Firefighters focused on keeping the blaze from spreading. Two nearby parks—Larson Park and Douglas Woodward Park—were at risk. BC Wildfire Service members arrived by helicopter to assist. Thanks to coordinated efforts, the fire stayed in one house.
“It’s contained. We’re confident it won’t spread,” Duncan said. “But it’s stubborn. We turn off the water and think it’s out, then it flares up elsewhere. We’ll be here for a while.”
A full fire investigation will begin once conditions allow safe entry. Duncan praised the residents’ quick actions.
“Valuables can be replaced. Lives cannot. They did the right thing. They got out early and called 911,” he said.
Crews remain on scene to monitor hotspots. Neighbouring properties are safe. Park trails are clear and open. No injuries were reported.
Local road access on Westhill Place was restricted during firefighting efforts. Drivers were rerouted for about two hours. Traffic is back to normal.
Fire crews advise all residents to check smoke alarms. They recommend clear roof access for firefighters. Homeowners with flat roofs should consider preventive fire measures. Rain gutters and vents can be fitted with metal mesh screens. This helps stop embers from entering attic spaces.
Flat roofs require extra attention. Fire can burn uphill and spread rapidly. Homes built into hillsides may be more at risk. Homeowners can trim back vegetation. They can store firewood away from the house. They can also create a safety zone of at least three metres around structures.
Deputy Chief Sarah Lee added that regular drills help save lives. Families should plan an escape route. They should pick a safe meeting spot outside. She asked everyone to review their home fire plans this weekend.
“Practice makes a real difference,” Lee said. “We want people to escape quickly and safely.”
The community has shown strong support. Neighbours brought water and snacks to firefighters. Some offered shelter to displaced residents. Duncan thanked everyone for their help.
“Our crews work best when the community pitches in,” he said. “It makes a tough job easier.”
Officials will review the fire’s cause. They will inspect electrical systems and roofing materials. The goal is to learn how to prevent similar fires. Duncan said this review could take weeks.
Meanwhile, homeowners in the area are urged to remain vigilant. Fire season in British Properties can be unpredictable. Dry weather, wind, and flat roofs can create a dangerous mix.
For more safety tips, visit the West Vancouver Fire & Rescue website. You can also follow their social media for alerts and updates.
