Nelson, BC: At approximately 1:15 am on Thursday, October 16, staff at the Castlegar & District Community Complex noticed smoke in the pool area. Upon investigation, staff observed smoke coming from the roof and immediately called 911. The Castlegar Fire Department responded quickly, extinguishing the fire shortly after arrival.
Thanks to the prompt actions of Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) staff and the Castlegar Fire Department, the fire was contained to a small area. However, there is a noticeable smoke smell in the pool area, and repair work will be required before reopening the pool.
As a result, the pool area will be closed until further notice, pending inspection and confirmation that it is safe for both patrons and staff. The rest of the facility remains open, as it was unaffected aside from minor smoke odour. The RDCK will provide updates as information becomes available.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.
The RDCK would again like to thank the Castlegar Fire Department for their quick response and community members for their understanding as we work to reopen the pool safely.