ST. ALBERT, Alta. — Alberta's senior minister says her department and Alberta Health Services are working with the operator of a retirement and long-term care complex to find housing for residents forced out by a fire.
Josephine Pon says in a statement she wants to ensure they have the support they need.
The fire broke out at Citadel Mews West Continuing Care Facility in St. Albert, just northwest of Edmonton, on Thursday night.
It destroyed part of the complex and three residents suffered smoke inhalation.
Some residents were sheltering in nearby hotel rooms after the complex was evacuated.
Those in long-term care were moved to a large banquet room until a more suitable space can be found.
Pon said Friday her heart goes out to the residents who lost their homes as well as to the three seniors who were taken to hospital and their families.
"I am praying for a quick recovery," she said in a statement.
A statement from the City of St. Albert said high winds fanned the flames and requests for help went out to fire departments in Morinville, Spruce Grove, Strathcona County and Edmonton.
Crews kept the fire from spreading to the neighbouring Citadel Mews East building in the roughly 10-year-old complex. Both buildings were evacuated "thanks to the quick and skilled actions of emergency crews," Pon said.
A cause of the fire has not yet been determined as firefighters continue to battle hot spots.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 7, 2021.
The Canadian Press
