Large Residential Structure Fire - 519 Bayfield Crescent

At approximately 11:37 p.m. on Sunday, December 15, 2019, the Saskatoon Fire Department received multiple 911 calls alerting to a possible residential structure fire at 519 Bayfield Crescent in the Briarwood neighbourhood; it was reported to fire dispatchers that smoke was visibly exiting from the rear of the structure.

Three fire engines, one rescue unit, one aerial ladder truck, and one battalion chief were dispatched for immediate response. Upon arrival, confirmation of a working structure fire was made and one additional fire engine and one fire investigation unit were requested by the commanding fire officer. A fifth fire engine was later dispatched and committed to this incident. Multiple other fire crews were required to respond throughout the duration of this incident to provide rehabilitation and relief for firefighters working on scene.

Fire crews were confronted with heavy and continuous heat and smoke at each attempt to make entry to the structure. The deteriorating structural integrity pushed firefighters to retreat from entry and commence a defensive fire attack strategy. With wind driving its spread, the fire proved challenging to access forcing firefighters to breach exterior doors and windows to conduct ventilation and apply suppression from the outside in a number of locations. All utilities to the structure were shut down with some utility supply lines sustaining significant damage as a result of the fire. The fire was brought fully under control at approximately 7:24 a.m. on Monday, December 16, 2019, with fire crews conducting overhaul efforts until a complete loss stopped was called at approximately 10:30 a.m. 

Fire crews undertook a significant accountability process for the entire duration of this incident to ensure the safety and locations of fire personnel working on scene. There were no injuries to fire personnel or members of the public as a result of this incident.

The structure has been labeled unsafe for entry and is considered a total loss at an estimated $550,000. Due to the deteriorated structural integrity, including a compromised roof and collapsed floor system, a cause has not been determined; however, this incident remains under investigation by both the Saskatoon Fire Department and the Saskatoon Police Service.