Saskatoon Fire - News Releases

Saskatoon Fire Department is responding to a reported garage fire on the 2000 block of St Charles Avenue.  Dispatched to the scene are 3 Engine Companies, a Ladder, al Rescue and a Battalion Chief. Callers report the garage is fully on fire and responding fire crews are spotting smoke from a distance.

Update to follow.

At approximately 8:37 this morning, the Saskatoon Fire Department was alerted to a multi-vehicle collision at the intersection of Avenue F South and 19th Street West. One person was reported to have been trapped inside one of the vehicles involved.

One fire engine, one heavy rescue unit, and one battalion chief were dispatched for response. Upon arrival, fire crews confirmed the entrapment of one individual and immediately began preparing the vehicle for the extrication process by providing stabilization and disconnecting the battery. A patient assessment was conducted by firefighter-paramedics prior to removing the occupant, with fire crews managing to remove the occupant before the full extrication process was complete. The occupant was transported to hospital with undetermined injuries. 

Fire crews performed fluid and debris clean-up in preparation for the three vehicles involved to be cleared from the scene.

The Saskatoon Police Service responded with multiple units to aid in securing the scene and obtaining statements. The intersection remains closed to public access while an investigation is conducted.

The Saskatoon Fire Department has now concluded its involvement in this incident.

At 8:38 pm tonight a Saskatoon Fire Department engine company was returning from a call when they noticed the smell of natural gas at the intersection of 22nd st and Idylwyld Dr. The crew investigated and heard gas leaking from a natural gas valve cover at this intersection. A ladder truck and battalion chief were dispatched to the scene. The ladder crew using gas detection equipment determined there was a high concentration of natural gas present.

Sask Energy was called and determined the gas was leaking from a underground valve.

Saskatoon fire department crews closed down the intersection to ensure the safety of the public, the police assisted with closing the intersection at 22nd street at ave C, 22nd street at Auditorium ave, Idylwyld dr. at 20th street and Idylwyld dr. at 23st.

Fire crews monitored the area and found gas leaking into the manholes, city crews were called in to assist with removing manhole covers to ventilate the gas.

Two local business in the area were tested for natural gas and it was determined that no natural gas was present in their buildings.

Sask Energy was able to preform maintenance on the valve to allow it to seal stopping the leak.

Fire crews remained on scene with Sask Energy to monitor the gas levels. At 11:21pm Sask Energy determined that the gas levels were safe to allow the intersection to be opened.

The Saskatoon Fire Department responded to a reported garage fire at 12:59 today, Three fire engines, One ladder  truck, One heavy rescue Unit and a battalion chief responded to the incident.

On arrival crews found a extinguished fire in the garage, One engine and a ladder truck remained on scene to check for extension and preform overhaul.

The home owner reported that he heard a pop and saw smoke coming from his garage, he called 911 then used his garden hose to attempt to  extinguish it.

A fire investigator was called to the scene and determined the fire to be accidental. The fire was the result of a damaged extension cord.

There was approximately fifty thousand ($50,000) damage to the garage and the vehicle in side.

In response to the high temperature and humidity this week, the Emergency Management Organization (EMO) has activated the Saskatoon Heat Response Strategy to support citizens in Saskatoon, especially those vulnerable to the heat.

EMO encourages members of the public to stay safe during this heat by visiting any of the designated cool-down locations throughout the city, including the lobbies of all City of Saskatoon Leisure Centres.

On a broader scale, in the event of a prolonged extreme heat event in Saskatoon, EMO could also activate notifynow targeted public safety messages to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens.

EMO is a member of the Heat Response Committee established by the Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP). A variety of community partners rally to provide support to residents through the heat response strategy. A Hot Weather Alert Level 3A (Heat Warning) is issued by SHIP when temperatures reach 32°C or greater.

EMO also reminds citizens that this is an important time to check on vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbours.

Other things to consider during days of extreme heat:

River Safety

Although the South Saskatchewan River may provide a tempting option to cool down on hot days, EMO reminds residents that the river is unpredictable and that swimming in the river is prohibited. The river has many hazards including changing currents and an unstable bottom.

Pet Wellness

On warm summer days, it’s important to keep your pets safe and comfortable. Considerations include:

• Ensuring your pet has plenty of fresh water to drink,
• Monitoring your pet for signs of heat stress such as rapid panting, 
• Never leaving pets in parked cars for any amount of time, and
• Offering your pet a means to cool down such as a wading pool or damp towel.

For more information on how to keep your pet safe this summer, contact the SPCA or your local veterinarian.

Working Safe

As the humidex rises, those who work outdoors are encouraged to take necessary actions including:

• Drinking extra water,
• Increasing breaks out of the sun, and
• Modifying work duties to prevent heat illness.

For safety tips and guidelines for employees working in hot conditions, visit the Government of Saskatchewan’s Working Outdoors page.

Transit Safe Bus Program

As always, Saskatoon Transit offers the Safe Bus Program designed to assist anyone, of any age, that needs immediate shelter or needs to contact emergency services. If you need help, simply and safely flag down a bus or go to a parked bus. Transit operators can contact emergency services directly through the on-bus radio system and will give the person in need a safe place to wait.

Smart Yard and Garden Watering

During heat waves, there is increased water usage. The City encourages residents to be water wise by watering your lawn and trees early in the morning and skip windy days to minimize evaporation. Smart watering helps the environment and can save you money during hot summer months. Follow these quick lawn care tips to be more efficient with your water and learn more ways to be water wise.

In the event of a leisure facility closure, the City will issue a service alert. Residents can find information regarding service alerts at saskatoon.ca/servicealerts. 

In an emergency, call 911 immediately.