Fire, aid and police responded to a report of a residential fire in the 2500 block of MacKenzie Road a little before noon today.
The structure appeared to have been gutted throughout by fire and a total loss as seen from the road later. According to family members, the two occupants were able to get out on their own but there was concern for the well-being of their cats.
The residents will be put up in the Silver Reef Casino Hotel until further arrangements can be made.
Whatcom County Fire Inspector Mitch Nolze was at the scene and this story will be updated with the results of his office’s investigation when available.
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Click for more informationUPDATE 5/2/16 3:50pm
According to Nolze, the fire was accidental, having began in the vicinity of a wood stove. While there were no injuries, the structure was confirmed to be a total loss.
Nolze took the opportunity to point out that wood stoves need to be cleaned and inspected regularly and installed per the permit requirements and manufacturer’s specifications.