Aylmer Arms Apartments up in flames

Taylor Clark

A fire caused 200 people to be evacuated from a seniors’ residence in the Aylmer sector on the evening of June 29. Fire services arrived at Aylmer Arms Apartments at 166 rue Principale around 9:18 pm, after residents were alerted by the alarm.

According to its website, Aylmer Arms is a non-profit organization incorporated under Quebec law to provide economical, affordable lodging for semi-retired and retired seniors.

The situation led to emergency evacuation by aerial ladder of several residents from the balconies closest to the fire. Smoke throughout the six-floor building complicated the work of firefighters, and the fire was extinguished around five hours later.

No injuries were reported, but 30 residents were in the care of the Canadian Red Cross.

A media release from the Gatineau Fire Safety Service indicated that damages were estimated at $3,743,730. Deschênes district councillor Caroline Murray said the fire had “seriously affected the building,” leaving the smell of smoke throughout the hallways days after. “I went to see (those overseeing the building) to reassure them that the City would not let them down,” Murray said after meeting with the Aylmer Arms president and general manager.

The district councillor explained that the Canadian Red Cross only provides assistance for 72 hours. “For the City, it was really important to make them understand that, after 72 hours, they would not be on the street and that we would take care of them. There is no resident who will be left behind.”

Photo caption: Gatineau Fire Safety Service tends to an apartment fire at the Aylmer Arms, 166 rue Principale in the Aylmer sector on June 29.

Photo credit: Charlie Trinque