BOWDEN - A fire that broke out in a workshop south of Bowden just after Christmas remains under investigation, but the cause of the blaze is not deemed to be suspicious.
The Olds Fire Department was called to the rural property on Highway 2A near Twp. Rd. 340 on Dec. 28 at 10:57 a.m.
Nineteen firefighters responded with two engines, a water tanker and a command unit. It took them about two-and-a-half hours to get the fire under control.
Initially, they asked Bowden and Innisfail fire departments for mutual aid to provide water, but it was not required once the fire was contained.
There were no injuries to occupants or firefighters as a result of the fire, according to the department. However, a dog that was in the shop at the time of the blaze died of smoke inhalation.
Firefighters managed to contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading elsewhere and limiting damage to the structure and most of the contents.
In a news release issued Jan. 2, the Olds Fire Department says the total loss had not yet been calculated, however it's expected to be "significant" because there was damage to the structure and many contents within.
Firefighters say they were able to mount an "aggressive interior attack" on the fire thanks to a new pumper acquired last year.
"It carries approximately 1,700 gallons of water as opposed to the traditional 1,000," the release says.
