I want to compliment the Oliver Fire department on their efforts to save SOSS. Based on my conversation with Chief Skaros early yesterday the fire crews arrived at a structure fire which had already progressed into the defensive phase. This means that an interior attack is not possible without risking serious injury or death; the safety of attack crews becomes paramount. When I arrived,  and OK Falls fire departments were working the fire and I want to thank Chiefs Jones and Haddow for assisting.

Thank you also to our BC Ambulance Crew who attended and continuously monitored the vital signs of the firefighters and the RCMP who provided perimeter security.  I saw a piece of heavy excavating equipment working in the fire scene and I want to thank owner/operator for assisting in creating a fire break which contributed to saving new construction.

It is a sad loss but we must be thankful for what was saved by the efforts of our firefighters and more thankful that none of them suffered serious injury.

Pat Hampson, Mayor, Town of Oliver