The pool at the Castlegar and District Community Complex is closed until further notice following a fire overnight.
The Regional District of Central Kootenay says staff noticed smoke in the pool area at about 1:15 a.m. today. Upon further investigation, they discovered smoke coming from the roof. The fire department responded and quickly put it out.
The RDCK says the fire was contained to a small area, but there is a noticeable smoke smell in the pool area, and repairs will be required before they can reopen.
“As a result, the pool area will be closed until further notice, pending inspection and confirmation that it is safe for both patrons and staff,” the RDCK said in a news release.
Operations manager Craig Stanley said there was minor damage to an exterior wall that will require some inside cleanup.
The rest of the facility remains open, including the fitness centre, seniors centre, and meeting rooms, as those parts were unaffected aside from minor smoke odour.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Stanley said they are working with WorkSafeBC, per regulations.
He added that an operator and custodian are normally in the building until 2 a.m. He applauded them for spotting the fire.
“They performed their diligent closing inspection and noticed the smoke prior to going home,” he said. “So they should be definitely recognized for reacting the way they did.”
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