House fires are becoming less common in Kamloops, but a pre-Christmas blaze on Argyle Avenue served as a reminder that fire remains an ever-present risk, even in well-established neighbourhoods.

“I think, in the grand scheme of things, fires should be trending downwards because of the education and the knowledge people are possessing,” said Josh Cowen, Kamloops Fire and Rescue’s life and safety educator.

Compared to the number of blazes firefighters were summoned to in the 1990s and early 2000s, structure fires have declined in the city. He said this is because of the level of education the public has received through KFR and the City’s fire-prevention efforts.

Installing smoke detectors, making sure homes and businesses have fire extinguishers, and knowing what to do in the case of a kitchen fire are just a few of the simple things people can do to prevent a fire. And Cowen says people have listened.

“Don’t throw water on a grease fire,” he said.

At the same time, there’s only so much one can do to prevent fires, and sometimes a blaze will spark despite people’s best efforts. That’s what happened when firefighters were called to the 2600-block of Argyle Avenue shortly after 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 21, where flames from a burning shed had already extended to a nearby residence.

Cowen said the blaze moved quickly from the shed to the home’s deck and into the attic and second floor. Two neighbouring sheds as well as a fence and hedge were also ignited, though firefighters were able to contain those flames before they caused too much damage to another house.

“There was some flame impingement to the home on the west of 2664 (Argyle),” said Cowan.

The homeowner sustained minor burns while attempting to control the fire before crews arrived. All occupants were able to evacuate safely, and no firefighters were injured.

“In the main structure of the home, firefighters did an amazing job,” he said. “It got into the attic and they basically stopped the fire in the back left corner of the property.”

Kamloops RCMP attended the scene alongside fire crews, and Emergency Social Services was brought in to assist those displaced by the fire.

Kamloops Fire and Rescue and the RCMP’s General Investigation Support Team investigated the blaze. Cowen said investigators determined the fire was human caused but not the work of arson.

Damage estimates have not yet been released. Cowen said it will be some time before the homeowners are allowed to return home. However, they were able to salvage medications, some personal belongings and even Christmas presents, so the family didn’t go without for the holiday.

“It made for a good Christmas as the kids were obviously missing their presents,” said Cowen.