PENHOLD - Seven homes in Penhold were evacuated Saturday evening (Sept. 2) following a report of arcing power lines and a grass fire along Minto Street inside Penhold Estates trailer court.
Shortly before 8:30 p.m. Penhold Fire Department crews were called to follow up on the report, and when they arrived three sections of lines were seen arcing, believed to be caused by high winds.
Penhold's Fire Chief Jim Pendergast said FortisAlberta was asked to shut off the power, as seven homes were immediately threatened and then evacuated.
Pendergast said the town set up a reception center staffed by volunteers and town staff and up to eight people were accommodated, including a family with small children and several pets.
He said FortisAlberta disconnected the power to the property and the firefighters put out the small grass fire.
Pendergast said the homes were without power until an electrician could make repairs.
"A representative of the property owners met with the residents and offered accommodations for them. All residents decided to remain in their homes," said Pendergast, adding it was at least the second time this year the local fire department has been called to the trailer court to deal with arcing power lines. "This was an example of all parties working together to achieve a successful conclusion".
He said the reception center was shutdown by 10:45 p.m.
Pendergast said there were no injuries. The fire department sent out a total of 18 firefighters in five units to deal with the emergency. A local peace officer was also at the scene.
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Jim Pendergast, Penhold fire chief
"A representative of the property owners met with the residents and offered accommodations for them. All residents decided to remain in their homes
