Calgary fire crews fight large brush fire in the southwest

CFD responds to fast-moving grass and brush fire in southwest Calgary

Calgary Fire Department crews responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a grass and brush fire in a forested area near 1515 93 Street S.W. shortly before 1:40 p.m. on Wednesday.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a fast-moving fire approximately the size of a soccer field. Embers from the blaze ignited several spot fires in nearby locations. Dry conditions, deadfall and the seasonal accumulation of poplar fluff contributed to the rapid spread.

Firefighters worked diligently in the heat to contain and extinguish the fire, with suppression efforts continuing into the late afternoon.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown and no injuries have been reported at this time. No structures were affected as a result of this fire. 

Anyone with information, photos or video of the fire prior to CFD’s arrival is asked to contact piofire@calgary.ca

Calgarians are reminded to be extremely cautions with any open flames and the always safely dispose of smoking materials.  Poplar fluff is a significant fire hazard, particularly in urban areas, due to its highly flammable nature and tendency to spread fires quickly. The fluff, which are actually the seeds of poplar trees, can act like a wick, carrying fire across dry grass and debris. Wind currents further accelerate the spread of these fires. 

Improper disposal of smoking material such as tobacco products is the leading cause of outdoor fires in Calgary. To help reduce outdoor fire risks, citizens should make an effort to properly dispose of smoking material.

Extreme caution should be used in the city’s natural areas and green spaces where extremely dry vegetation covering the ground provides readily combustible fuel if an ignition source is applied.

To better protect your homes, it is recommended that you: 

• Never put out cigarettes or smoking material in flower planter, peat moss, your lawn or garden. 
• Use a deep, wide, sturdy metal container with a lid, filled part way with sand or water that should be emptied regularly.
• Ensure all butts and ash are out by soaking them with water prior to putting in the trash.
• Never discard your butts by throwing them off of your balcony, or out of your vehicle window.

Please visit calgary.ca/fire for more fire prevention and fire safety information.

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