Structure Fire - 2400 block of Cairns Avenue

At approximately 6:14 p.m. on June 9, 2020, the Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call alerting to a detached garage on fire in the 2400 block of Cairns Avenue. Three fire engines, one rescue unit, one aerial ladder truck, one fire investigation unit, and one battalion chief were dispatched for response.

While en-route, the first responding fire engine encountered an adult male in the road attempting to impede response to the fire; the operator engaged the air horn and successfully navigated the fire engine around the individual. Arriving on scene in less than three minutes, the commanding fire officer noted visible smoke and flame exiting the garage; a bystander equipped with a garden hose was attempting to extinguish the fire. Firefighters initiated an immediate attack using a mixture of water and foam, bringing the flames under control in less than 20 minutes from the time of notification. Fire crews used a thermal imaging camera to check for possible extension and began overhaul efforts on the structure. While on scene, a nearby home owner informed firefighters that his household recycling bin had also been set on fire and that he'd put it out using a fire extinguisher.

A fire investigator has identified the fire to be incendiary with damage estimated at approximately $10,000. The Saskatoon Police Service attended the scene to take witness statements and continue an investigation; a successful arrest was made in relation to this incident the same evening.

Members of the public are reminded to report non-emergent suspicious activity by calling 306-975-8300. In an emergency, call 911 immediately.