(UFFW 867 / FILE)
Winnipeg firefighters have responded to 55 grass and brush fires this year and there doesn’t appear to be an end in sight.
Crews tended to five more significant wildfires on Tuesday on Waverley Street, Huddersfield Place, Laxdal Road, Balgona Road, and Provencher Boulevard.
“We would like to remind residents that the temporary open-air fire ban is still in effect, and urge residents not to start open-air fires unless using an outdoor natural gas appliance such as a barbecue,” said Tom Wallace, deputy chief of Support Services with WFPS.
“Forecasted strong winds today increase the risk of wildland fires, as the wind can carry embers to different locations and create additional hotspots.”
Statistics released by the city say the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to 85 grass/brush fires in all of 2017.
From January 1 to May 8, 2018, WFPS have responded to 55 grass/brush fires. In 2017, WFPS responded to a total of 85 grass/brush fires for the year.
The public is advised not to approach active fire incidents as conditions can rapidly change and put those around such scenes into danger.
