The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George (RDFFG) says this morning’s fire at the Windy Point Inn near McLeod Lake is a huge blow to the area.
“The Mackenzie Fire Department was paged out to attend at a quarter to eight this morning, when they arrived on the scene The Windy Point Inn was fully involved and they were able to come out with seven firefighters and had one fire engine with them,” says Renee McCloskey, RDFFG Manager of External Relations.
“There are gas tanks and propane tanks nearby and we really want to thank our crews for doing what they can to keep the area safe.”
The cause of the fire and an estimated dollar loss is unknown at this time.
The blaze shut down Highway 97 in both directions for two hours and has since re-opened.
UPDATE: @DriveBC says #BCHwy97 has re-opened as fire continues to burn #McLeodLakeBC restaurant | https://t.co/5JZqFkonYn #NorthernBC pic.twitter.com/xrF59NJ4N8
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) February 13, 2018
The hotel, restaurant, and gas station, located less than five kilometres south of the Highway 39 junction to Mackenzie, is a popular stop among truck drivers and commuters along Highway 97.
Injuries are not known at this time.
A water shuttle was provided by private companies and a hydrant was used from the McLeod Lake Indian Band.
– with files from Kyle Balzer, My Prince George Now