The Saskatoon Fire Department is releasing a few more details about the early morning fire on Sunday in the 300 block of 109th Street West, including a dangerous flash over event.

While firefighters were inside conducting searches to ensure no one was inside, the Fire Department says all combustible material ignited simultaneously, creating a flash over condition. Two firefighters took safe haven in a bedroom and closed the door behind them. They sent a radio “mayday” alert that overrides the usual radio transmissions, letting the crews know where they were, and the conditions of the fire. The fire department says the two firefighters broke a window, and a ladder was brought to the window. They were able to safely evacuate without injury. The cause and origin of the fire is ongoing due to the current condition of the home.

The Fire Department says, “Firefighter safety is everyone’s priority but the job they perform comes with risks. It is the extensive training beyond performing rescues and tactics where they practice self preservation that are integral to firefighter safety.”