Athabasca County regional fire chief Travis Shalapay said crews got the call at 5:41a.m. this morning to respond to the fire at the Grand Union Hotel. Heavy smoke was visible on arrival.
Crews and equipment from Boyle, Colinton, Rochester, Baptiste Lake, Richmond park, Grassland and Lac La Biche are on scene to assist.
Highway 2 between 50 Street and 49 Street is closed as firefighters battle the blaze, as is 50 Street between 49 Avenue and Highway 2 and a portion of 49 Street. Town staff and contractors such as Emco and Fortis have been helping to secure the roads and surrounding areas.
Local company Trident Pumps have also arrived on scene with two 4x4 vehicles to allow crews to pump water directly from the river.
More to come
