Squamish fire under control but warnings still in place

Officials say a fire that started on Thursday evening at anindustrial dock in Squamish, B.C.is under control butwon't be put out until Saturday and smoke is still a potential concern for nearby residents.

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Paul Martiquet, a medical health officer with Vancouver Coastal Health, saidso far none of the monitors in place wereindicating a health problem from the smoke.

However, those with pre-existing lung conditions could still be at risk.

"Breathing in the creosote smoke is hazardous if it is a chronic exposure," said Martiquet."The acute exposure in this case would cause short-term lung irritation."

Officials say they're monitoring the situation, as more smoke could be pushed back into town if the wind shifts. Theysay oneperson went to hospital and was treated forrespiratory issues.

"If there's any situation where we need to have a shelter-in-place again, we'll do that," said Squamish Mayor Patricia Heintzman.

The impact of smoke from the fire on locally-grown garden vegetables has also raisedconcerns.

District officials recommended that residents not consume any vegetables from local garden plotsuntil Vancouver Coastal Health reviews environmental results.

Concerns about the toxicity of the smoke led to an order for local residents to stay inside shortly after the fire started last night.The burning dock pilings are soaked with creosote.

Officials don't know yet what caused the fireor the full extent of the damage. They say they're still focusing on putting the fire out.