Calgary Fire Department Investigators determine origin and cause of early morning Copperstone Park fire

Firefighters quickly contain condominium fire in Copperfield

A quick response by the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) prevented significant damage after a fire broke out on the balcony of a condominium complex in the southeast community of Copperfield early this morning.

At approximately 3:10 a.m., CFD responded to multiple 911 calls reporting flames and smoke on the second, third and fourth-floor balconies of a four-storey, 72-unit building on Copperstone Park S.E. Sprinklers on the balcony had activated, helping to contain the fire while crews worked swiftly to knock down the flames and assist with evacuation. The fire was successfully contained to the exterior, preventing further spread and damage.

An investigation into the fire’s origin has determined that it was caused by a cigarette butt discarded in a planter pot, which ignited the organic matter inside. It remains unclear where the cigarette came from, as evidence suggests it may have been discarded from a higher balcony. Investigators also found multiple cigarette butts on the ground below, indicating an ongoing issue of improper and unsafe disposal from smokers on upper floors.

The only reason this fire did not leave many residents homeless was the quick actions of an occupant who noticed the flames at approximately 3 a.m. and immediately called 911. Additionally, the presence of sprinklers on the balconies played a critical role in containing the fire and limiting spread until fire crews arrived.

The cause of the fire underscores the serious risks associated with improperly discarding smoking materials. The CFD urges all residents, particularly those in multi-family dwellings, to safely dispose of cigarette butts in non-combustible and sturdy fire-resistant containers with a lid. Improper disposal of smoking material such as tobacco products is the leading cause of outdoor fires in Calgary and cause millions of dollars in damage every year.

How to properly dispose of smoking material

To better protect your homes, it is recommended that you:

• Never put out cigarettes or smoking material in flower planter, peat moss, your lawn or garden. 
• Use a deep, wide, sturdy metal container with a lid, filled part way with sand or water that should be emptied regularly.
• Ensure all butts and ash are out by soaking them with water prior to putting in the trash. 
• The Calgary Fire Department reminds residents of the importance of working smoke alarms and knowing their building’s emergency evacuation plan. 

Anyone with information, photos or video of the fire prior to CFD’s arrival is asked to email piofire@calgary.ca. For further fire prevention and fire safety information, visit calgary.ca/fire

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