Big bang proves harmless

The Kelowna Fire Department along with the RCMP feared the worst when they responded to a report of an explosion in a home on Royal View Drive in Kelowna.

Photo: Grant Scott

Emergency crews responded to a report of an explosion on Royal View Dr. Friday afternoon.

The homeowner reported hearing an explosion coming from the basement followed by the smoke detectors going off.

"The homeowner evacuated - and she phoned us and said there was an explosion, so we treat that seriously. When all our vehicles are coming out here, we're expecting a fire" says Platoon Captain Laurie Serres.

"When we get here, no fire, no smoke."

The subsequent investigation points to some type of "blow-back" in the furnace.

"It blew the pilot light out, but also created some combustion to set off the smoke alarms. Our investigation found it was very minor," says Serres.

"The gas to the furnace has been turned off and it's been recommended, before they ever use it again, that they have it properly serviced."

Many neighbours came out on the street after the sudden appearance of both police and fire crews.

Most reported that they heard nothing of the original incident.

Serres added that all home owners should use this incident as a reminder to get their furnace serviced now that cooler weather has arrived.