200 evacuated from fire in Gatineau apartment

A fire broke out Saturday evening in an apartment building for people aged 55 and over, in the Aylmer sector of Gatineau, Que.

Firefighters were called to 166 Rue Principale just after 9:00 p.m., according to a Sunday morning news release from Gatineau fire services.

Smoke from the fire was present on many floors and complicated the work of firefighters.

No one was injured however, several emergency evacuations by power-operated extending ladders were necessary to evacuate residents, who were out on their balconies near the fire.

Around 200 people were evacuated and about 30 people were taken into care by the Red Cross, firefighters said.

Gatineau police assisted the firefighters by temporarily securing the scene and its surroundings. 

The fire was reported to be under control around 2:00 a.m., with losses being estimated at more than 3 million dollars. 

According to the City of Gatineau’s property assessment report, the building with 104 housing units is owned by Aylmer Arms, a non-profit organization. 

The organization is incorporated under Quebec law and provides affordable housing to people aged 55 and over, according to its website. 

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