ATIKOKAN, ON – Atikokan’s emergency responders faced a significant challenge on Sunday evening, August 25, 2024, as they were called to handle both a house fire and a gas leak occurring at opposite ends of the town.
Just before 8:00 pm, the Atikokan Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) was dispatched to a house fire on Willow Road. Six minutes later, a residential gas line rupture was reported on Rawn Road. The Atikokan OPP and Atikokan Fire Rescue Service quickly mobilized to address both emergencies simultaneously.
Police evacuated nearby residences around the gas leak and secured the area while utility workers capped the leak. The all-clear was given at approximately 10:30 pm. The gas line rupture was traced back to private excavation work.
Homeowners and tenants are reminded that under the Ontario Underground Infrastructure Notification System Act, 2012, a locate request must be submitted before any digging. Visit ontarioonecall.ca to request a locate and ensure your safety.
No injuries were reported in the house fire, though the single-detached residence sustained extensive interior damage. The Atikokan OPP and Atikokan Fire Rescue Service are investigating the cause of the fire.
Safety Reminder: Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly. Only working detectors save lives. Visit the Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association at omfpoa.com for essential safety tips and legal requirements.
