Esquimalt Fire Rescue was called to a structure fire on Garrett Place on April 14 just before 2 a.m.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy flames coming from a second-storey apartment, the department shared on social media.

Hose lines were quickly set up for an exterior knockdown before crews entered the building to fully extinguish the fire.

CFB fire crews were also called on for a balcony rescue and helped search the building for occupants.

Victoria and View Royal fire departments provided support, rapid intervention responder rescue, search and back up.

The building is a 30-unit apartment building operated by the Salvation Army in partnership with BC Housing. Tenants are single, aged 45 or over and deemed 鈥渁 household in need,鈥� with rent is based on income.

Some residents away from the second storey apartment where the fire originated returned to their units Sunday, said Tara Zajak, manager of communications for Esquimalt.

Those displaced were put up at another Salvation Army facility, with friends or hotels and provided emergency social services.

鈥淩esidents will stay on ESS supports for 72 hours,鈥� Zajak said. 鈥淲e are currently assisting them to find support beyond 72 hours through other support agencies.鈥�

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