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Train sparks multiple fires in eastern Sask.

WDFD and three other fire departments called out
Grass fires
A string of grass fires along the tracks were sparked by passing train.

Tinder dry conditions and a westbound train were responsible for a string of fires along the CP rail line between Fleming and Moosomin, Sask. on Wed. Aug. 15.

Firefighters from Virden, Elkhorn, Moosomin and Wapella attended and fought the flames for four hours until around sunset.

The Wallace District Fire Department (WDFD) alone dispatched five trucks and 12 firefighters. Chief Brad Yochim says when they left the scene, fires were still burning in some areas but another department was monitoring the hot spots.

Responsibility

Yochim says, “Rail lines are responsible for all costs associated with a fire that is started by their trains. We will be issuing an invoice for our services to CP Rail.”

At press time, three of the RMs in this region (Wallace-Woodworth, Pipestone and Archie-Ellis) had burning bans in effect. Yochim expects others may follow suit if conditions remain dry.  

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