Kamloops fire crews battle blaze at Blackwell Dairy Farm

Jun 15, 2017 | 12:15 AM

KAMLOOPS — Fire crews were kept busy overnight containing a blaze at the Blackwell Dairy Farm in Barnharvale.

The fire destroyed the Dairy’s processing plant, including large coolers inside that held much of the processed milk. At least two vehicles were destroyed or badly damaged.

A nearby barn, built in 1913, was saved. Animals inside were moved to a nearby field as a safety precaution.

Fire Rescue Captain Jeff Bell told CFJC Today seven fire engines were initially dispatched, with approximately 30 firefighters just after 11:30pm on Wednesday, June 14th. 

“Big flames and smoke showing, some small explosions — probably gas tanks or tires. We made a defensive attack, meaning no one went inside the building to fight the fire, for safety reasons,” said Bell. 

WATCH: Raw video from the scene

Several paramedics were also on scene, along with RCMP officers and workers from BC Hydro, and Fortis. 

Arcing Hydro lines were of concerns to firefighters arriving on scene, and as the blaze intensified, Bell says crews were concerned about the possibility of the building collapsing. 

Capt. Jeff Bell adds there were no injuries reported, and that the investigation is ongoing at this point. 

Blackwell officials now have to look at options to see what resources are available to process their milk and get it to market.