Fire investigators from around the province learned practical skills as the Fire Prevention Officers Association of B.C. held its annual convention in Vernon.
Four burn cells were ignited Tuesday night at the regional fire training centre on Pottery Road. Each eight-foot room was outfitted to replicate a room in a home — a recreation room complete with a foosball table, a kitchen, a living room and a bedroom.
Each fire was started in a specific manner and Wednesday afternoon investigators were on site to look at burn patterns, source of ignition and other information they can apply in real life situations.
“There is nothing like practical learning and this is the best simulation we can have for us to study” said Mark Smitton, past-president of the FPOABC and an assistant chief with the Maple Ridge Fire Department.
The four burn cells were constructed by Okanagan Restoration Services with material donated by Rona and Boyd Distributors.
“It’s great to have this kind of community collaboration, we couldn’t do these kind of exercises without corporate partnerships,” said Lawrie Skolrood, Vernon deputy fire chief.
The conference concluded Thursday.