Photos by Jack Most  | Story by Mary P. Brooke             Sept. 26, 2010

Over 100 firefighters, arson experts and insurance investigators met in Sooke Sept.20-24 for some hands-on training and observation as the old Manuel Quimper Motel was set to flame.

Hosted by the Sooke Fire & Rescue Service, the event was a highly successful gathering that allowed those involved in the firefighting service industry to observe pre-established burn conditions.  "Having 20 furnished rooms to observe during a burn was a rare training opportunity," said Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen.

Among other activities, computer sensors were used to observe how fast heat rises and how long it takes for temperatures to lower again. Observers, including fire rescue volunteers, local municipal politicians, and insurance investigators were able to observe scenarios in real time (that they would otherwise just read about or hear about second-hand).

Simultaneous fires were set and outcomes observed. The progression of fires and how various materials burn could be observed. This information is likely to be incorporated into future building codes and standards that many ultimately save lives and property. MM

  See pre-event story about the Manuel Quimper event burn.

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