Winnipeg, MB – At 4:36 p.m. on July 6, 2021, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to Centreport Canada Way for reports of a grass and brush fire in the same vicinity of last night’s significant wildland fire.
When crews arrived on scene they encountered smoke coming from a treed area, extending into the adjacent grassy field. Crews used specialized wildland-urban interface equipment, including the WFPS Bison, to attack the fires and protect the surrounding areas and properties. The WFPS drone was also used for situational awareness and the detection of hot spots.
The fire has been declared under control. No injuries have been reported.
The causes of the fires today and yesterday are not known at this time.
Wildland and grass fire prevention
Conditions in and around Winnipeg are extremely dry and there is little precipitation in the current forecast. Residents must exercise caution to prevent wildland and grass fires. Burning yard waste, garbage, or scrap material is prohibited within city limits and can result in a fine. As well, fires cannot be started, even with a proper fire permit or within an approved pit, if wind speeds and/or gusts exceed 25 km/h.
It is also important that residents never dispose of smoking materials in any sort of vegetation or from vehicle windows. Butts should also never be put out in planter pots.
To protect businesses and homes from grass and brush fires, proper landscaping and vegetation management are important, particularly when conditions are dry. This includes thinning and pruning vegetation, removing trees and converting to fire-resistant plants, and general cleanup of brush, leaves, grass, and debris. Watering plants and vegetation in the area surrounding your home is also important, particularly in the first 10 meters around the home.
Other strategies include storing firewood at least 10 meters away from structures, and ensuring approved outdoor fire receptacles are in an open area away from overhanging vegetation. The City also has a set of guidelines regarding outdoor fire receptacles such as fire pits, fire places, and outdoor BBQs. The rules regarding fires within approved outdoor fire receptacles are set out in part 6 of the Neighbourhood Liveability By-law.