Two Victoria families were forced out onto the street as 19 firefighters battled smoke and flames in a townhouse Tuesday afternoon.
Victoria firefighters from all three stations raced to a report of a balcony fire at 2533 Blanshard St. at 12:57 p.m.
"Upon first in, engine crews encountered heavy smoke and fire conditions on the first floor of an attached townhouse," said firefighter and communications dispatcher Matt Sharpe.
The flames coming from one room in the home were quickly knocked down by firefighters working from the inside, "although extensive smoke and heat damage made two townhouse units untenable," Sharpe said.
No injuries were reported, though a family cat remains unaccounted for. Emergency Social Service workers oversaw care to the displaced residents.
Damages are estimated at $250,000.
"The one place is definitely done," Sharpe said.
Victoria fire prevention officers continued to investigate the cause of the fire on Wednesday.