News Release

Update - Apartment Fire - 20 Dawn Street

(Sunday, February 20/05) -- Between 250 and 300 residents of three apartment buildings on Dawn Street in Fairview remain out of their homes tonight as a result of a fire at one of the buildings today.

Fire broke out at a building at 20 Dawn Street this morning, and firefighters were forced to evacuate tenants, as well as residents in two neighboring buildings at 15 and 16 Dawn Street.

Nova Scotia Power was asked to cut electricity to the area to allow fire crews to move in high-rise aerial equipment to battle the blaze. Firefighters remain on the scene at this time, still fighting the fire.

Most of those evacuated were able to arrange other accommodation for overnight, but 35 had to be temporarily relocated at the Fairview Salvation Army shelter until tomorrow.

Persons evacuated from the three buildings may contact the HRM Corporate Call Centre tomorrow at 490-4000 for further updates regarding the fire and when some will be able to return to their homes.

A number of persons have contacted HRM and others offering donations of help for those left homeless. HRM asks those interested in making a donation for this purpose to please contact the Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank at 453-2498.

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Contact:

John O’Brien
Corporate Communications Officer
(902)490-6531