Winnipeg, MB – Since Monday, July 5, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) has been on scene at a grass and shrub fire near Centreport Canada Way. The fire has flared up, and has been contained multiple times since Monday.
The risk to life safety is minimal, as the area is uninhabited, and there are no structures at risk of damage in the vicinity.
At this time, WFPS has contacted the property owner and the Office of the Fire Commissioner to create a long-term mitigation strategy. Smoke and smouldering may be visible from time-to-time until a long-term strategy is applied and the fire is fully extinguished.
The WFPS thanks area residents for their vigilance in reporting this fire to 911. WFPS crews are aware of this fire and will remain on scene until the fire is fully extinguished.
The cause of the original fire is under investigation. No damage estimates are available.
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.