Firetrucks on scene for a grass fire late Saturday night (photo courtesy Teagan Rasche)

By Teagan Rasche

Saturday night fire in Northlands

Risk for wildfires still significant, fire department says

Oct 4, 2021 | 4:43 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Even though temperatures have been cooler this fall, the ground is still dry enough for a small spark to turn into a large blaze.

Fire crews responded to a grassfire in the Northlands late Saturday night.

The fire was under control within 10 minutes and there were no injuries or damage to buildings.

While the exact cause of the fire hasn’t been released, there were reports of fireworks that evening.

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Safety codes officer Grayson Smith says the risk for wildfires is still significant. Medicine Hat is still experiencing warm temperatures, a regular breeze, low moisture content and low precipitation.

Smith wants people to remember fireworks are prohibited in the city unless you’re a trained technician.

“A lot of times you’ll see them with Canada Day or with the Stampede, those are the most common times where we issue permits and we inspect to make sure things are OK,” Smith said. “Any other time of the year, not a good idea.”

Smith says there are fines associated with lighting fireworks and advises people to be careful when putting out cigarettes, as that’s also a severe fire hazard.