Winnipeg, MB – At 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a vegetation fire in the Symington Yards.
When crews arrived to the scene, they found a significant grass and brush fire, approximately one kilometer in length. Using specialized equipment, including the WFPS Bison, crews applied water to the fire while preventing the flames from extending to rail cars and structures at the site.
The fire was declared extinguished at 8:51 a.m. No injuries were reported.
The fire is believed to have been caused by a moving train with a faulty spark arrestor.
Wildland and grass fire prevention
Conditions within Winnipeg are expected to be hot, dry and windy over the coming days. The WFPS is urging Winnipeggers to take steps to prevent grass and brush fires.
Fires cannot be started, even with a proper fire permit, if wind speeds and/or gusts exceed 25 km/h. This includes fires within an approved fire pit. Windy conditions are forecast in Winnipeg today and over the weekend, so it’s likely all fires will be prohibited. Please pay attention to your local weather forecast before using your fire pit.
WFPS also offers the following advice to help prevent wildland and grass fires:
- Do not dispose of cigarette butts in any sort of vegetation (including grass), in planter pots, or from vehicle windows.
- Only burn clean, dry, untreated wood. Do not burn yard waste, garbage, or scrap material on your property. Doing so within City limits is prohibited and can result in a fine.
- Only use approved outdoor fire receptacles such as fire pits, fire places and outdoor BBQs. Fire pits must be enclosed on all sides and have a spark arrestor.
- Always have a means to extinguish the fire readily available.
- Remember - fires cannot be started, even with a proper fire permit, if wind speeds and/or gusts exceed 25 km/h.
Protecting your property:
- Thin and prune vegetation, removing trees and cleaning up brush, leaves, grass and debris.
- Plant fire-resistant plants and shrubs. Avoid flammable plants and trees that accumulate fire, dry dead material or have papery bark.
- Water plants and vegetation in the area surrounding your home, particularly during dry conditions.
- Store firewood at least 10 metres away from structures.
- Position your approved fire pits/receptacles in an open area away from overhanging trees.
For more information visit: Wildland fires - Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service - City of Winnipeg