A dramatic Christmas Day fire in rural Ottawa resulted in a minor injury to a firefighter and required a significant response to extinguish a fully engulfed barn.
Fire Erupts on Christmas Afternoon
Ottawa Fire Services received a 911 call at approximately 3:35 p.m. on Thursday, December 25, reporting a neighbouring barn was on fire. The incident occurred in the 6200 block of Fourth Line Road near the community of North Gower. Callers stated the structure was already fully involved in flames upon discovery.
Challenging Firefight Without Hydrants
Firefighters faced a significant logistical challenge upon arrival. The burning building was described as a "large footprint commercial structure" located in an area with no municipal fire hydrants. To combat the intense blaze, crews implemented a water shuttle system, ferrying water from a nearby source to the scene.
The operation lasted roughly 90 minutes before the fire was officially declared under control at 5:07 p.m. During the response, one Ottawa firefighter received a minor injury. No other injuries were reported to civilians or other responders.
Investigation into the Cause
With the fire extinguished, the focus has shifted to determining its origin. Ottawa Fire Services confirmed that a fire investigator has been assigned to the case to determine the cause of the Christmas Day blaze. The extent of the damage to the barn is being assessed.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks firefighters face daily, even on holidays, and highlights the unique challenges of protecting rural properties where infrastructure like hydrants is not available.
