Saskatoon Fire - News Releases

Pet Rescued from House Fire at 1136 Elliot Street.

At 3:45 this afternoon The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call reporting a house was on fire with smoke coming from the front door at 1136 Elliot Street. 

Three Engines, an Aerial Ladder, a Heavy Rescue Truck, and a Battalion Chief were dispatched to the scene.

First crews arrived in four minutes and found a single storey residential home with smoke coming from the front and left side of the structure.  Crews used attack hose lines and entered the back of the home to conduct a search.  Once inside, crews found a fire in the basement.  A thorough rescue search was conducted while continuing to extinguish areas involved in fire. 

One cat was rescued from the home and another cat was found deceased. The initial fire was brought under control in eighteen minutes.  Occupants were not in the home at the time of the fire.

Crews worked to extinguish any remaining hot spots and used ventilation fans to clear the remaining smoke.  Utility technicians were called to the scene to disconnect the gas and power to the home.

A Fire Investigation Unit was called to the scene and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. 

Damages are estimated at $ 50,000.

One lane of Highway 11 southbound has now been opened to public access.

Speed and traffic restrictions will remain in place until the incident is cleared. Obey all direction.

Follow the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline for further updates on the road closures in the area of the derailment site.

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The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) has authorized clean-up operations to begin at the derailment site on Highway 11 North of Saskatoon. 

The rail crossing over the southbound lanes has already been cleared - a secondary locomotive was able to move the unaffected rail cars away from the scene. Crews are now working to ensure the area is safe in order to allow heavy equipment to start moving the derailed cars. 

The initial locomotive that was heavily involved in fire was fully extinguished by 1:00 p.m.

Highway 11 northbound to Warman is closed just past 71st Street; traffic is being detoured to Highway 12 through Martensville and Highway 305 back to Highway 11 for locations north of Warman. Wanuskewin Road northbound is closed just past Penner Road to allow access to Cathedral Bluffs.

Please watch for message boards and obey speed restrictions and safety information. 

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At approximately 9:26 this morning, the Saskatoon Fire Department received multiple 911 calls reporting a train that had derailed at Highway 11 and Wanuskewin Road. 

The Saskatoon Fire Department and the Emergency Measures Organization were immediately dispatched to the scene with multiple units.

Fire Dispatchers determined for responding crews that the train, consisting of 52 rail cars and being operated by CN Rail, was carrying grain at the time of the derailment. Upon arrival, fire crews confirmed one locomotive to have a diesel fuel leak and be heavily involved in fire. In total, 30 rail cars were derailed from the tracks.

A Safety Officer from the Saskatoon Fire Department is on scene monitoring fire crew safety and procedures. There have been no injuries reported as a result of this incident and there is no risk to public safety. 

There is a large presence of emergency and civilian agencies on scene managing the situation. Traffic is being diverted from the area; it is advised that motorists find alternate routes around the derailment site. Updates on the Highway 11 road closure can be accessed through the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline Twitter account.

An update will be provided as more information becomes available. 

The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) has authorized clean-up operations to begin at the derailment site on Highway 11 North of Saskatoon. 

The rail crossing over the southbound lanes has already been cleared - a secondary locomotive was able to move the unaffected rail cars away from the scene. Crews are now working to ensure the area is safe in order to allow heavy equipment to start moving the derailed cars. 

The initial locomotive that was heavily involved in fire was fully extinguished by 1:00 p.m.

Highway 11 northbound to Warman is closed just past 71st Street; traffic is being detoured to Highway 12 through Martensville and Highway 305 back to Highway 11 for locations north of Warman. Wanuskewin Road northbound is closed just past Penner Road to allow access to Cathedral Bluffs.

Please watch for message boards and obey speed restrictions and safety information. 

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At approximately 9:26 this morning, the Saskatoon Fire Department received multiple 911 calls reporting a train that had derailed at Highway 11 and Wanuskewin Road. 

The Saskatoon Fire Department and the Emergency Measures Organization were immediately dispatched to the scene with multiple units.

Fire Dispatchers determined for responding crews that the train, consisting of 52 rail cars and being operated by CN Rail, was carrying grain at the time of the derailment. Upon arrival, fire crews confirmed one locomotive to have a diesel fuel leak and be heavily involved in fire. In total, 30 rail cars were derailed from the tracks.

A Safety Officer from the Saskatoon Fire Department is on scene monitoring fire crew safety and procedures. There have been no injuries reported as a result of this incident and there is no risk to public safety. 

There is a large presence of emergency and civilian agencies on scene managing the situation. Traffic is being diverted from the area; it is advised that motorists find alternate routes around the derailment site. Updates on the Highway 11 road closure can be accessed through the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline Twitter account.

An update will be provided as more information becomes available. 

At approximately 9:26 this morning, the Saskatoon Fire Department received multiple 911 calls reporting a train that had derailed at Highway 11 and Wanuskewin Road. 

The Saskatoon Fire Department and the Emergency Measures Organization were immediately dispatched to the scene with multiple units.

Fire Dispatchers determined for responding crews that the train, consisting of 52 rail cars and being operated by CN Rail, was carrying grain at the time of the derailment. Upon arrival, fire crews confirmed one locomotive to have a diesel fuel leak and be heavily involved in fire. In total, 30 rail cars were derailed from the tracks.

A Safety Officer from the Saskatoon Fire Department is on scene monitoring fire crew safety and procedures. There have been no injuries reported as a result of this incident and there is no risk to public safety. 

There is a large presence of emergency and civilian agencies on scene managing the situation. Traffic is being diverted from the area; it is advised that motorists find alternate routes around the derailment site. Updates on the Highway 11 road closure can be accessed through the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline Twitter account.

An update will be provided as more information becomes available. 

Saskatoon Fire Department assists in Evacuation of multi-family residence at 1310 20^th Street.

At 2:28 this afternoon The Saskatoon Fire Department responded to a water leak at 1310 20^th Street. 

One Engine an Aerial Ladder the Mobil Command Unit a Fire Inspector and a Battalion Chief responded to the scene.

Crews arrived at the 7 storey property and found a water line had ruptured and flooded the electrical room.  This resulted in the power being cut to the building and an evacuation was necessary.

Crews remain on scene assisting occupants from 42 suites with gathering their belongings and pets while the evacuation concludes.

Saskatoon Fire Department received multiple 911 calls at 6:47 pm, reporting smoke in the hall way at this four story apartment building. Three Engines, One ladder, one Rescue truck and the Battalion Chief responded to this scene.

On arrival the first Engine found heavy smoke coming from a main floor apartment, the crew started to evacuate the building then entered the suite to search for occupants, none were found.

A quick interior attack was made to extinguish a fire in the bedroom, additional crews assisted with the evacuation of the main floor. The occupants on the 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th floors were shelter in place.

The fire is under investigation. Cause and damage estimate have not been determined at this time.

No injuries have been reported due to this incident.  

Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call just before 03:00 AM ,reporting a house on fire at 201 26th Street West. Three Engines, one Ladder Company, one Rescue Unit, and the Battalion Chief responded to the scene.

Crews arrived on scene in less than four minutes.  Smoke and flame were visible coming from the rear of the house with upper level involvement as well. The house was boarded up and appeared to be vacant.

 An exterior attack was initiated to contain and control the main body of fire. Crews remain on scene extinguishing hot spots and fire that has extended into various areas of the structure.

Rotation of staff throughout the night was required due to the extreme cold and difficult working conditions on scene. 

A Fire Investigator is on scene. Cause and damage estimate have not been given at this time. No injuries have been reported due to this incident. 

Saskatoon Fire Department received a call just before 02:00 AM reporting a garage on fire at 1631 Avenue C North. Three Engines, one Ladder company, one Rescue Unit and the Battalion Chief responded to the scene.

On arrival, flames were showing on the exterior of the garage and had already moved into the attic. Crews extinguished the main body of fire very quickly but remained on scene for just under one hour to ensure the fire was completely under control.  A primary search was conducted throughout the interior immediately after arrival, to verify no occupants were inside the structure.

A Fire Investigator was called to the scene. The cause and damage estimate have not been given at this time. No injuries resulted due to this incident.

At approximately 11:40 this morning, the Saskatoon Fire Department received multiple 911 calls reporting a detached garage on fire at 323 Nemeiben Road. 

Three Fire Engines, one Aerial Ladder Truck, one Heavy Rescue Truck, and one Battalion Chief were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, fire crews confirmed visible smoke and flame to be exiting a detached garage in the rear of the address reported. It was determined that all occupants had evacuated from the property and a defensive attack was initiated on the garage. The utilities to the garage were disconnected to allow crews to work safely and effectively on scene. Fire crews contained the fire to the garage, preventing the flame from spreading to adjacent homes. The fire was brought under control within 40 minutes of the first fire crew arriving.

A Fire Investigation Unit was dispatched to the scene and Fire Investigators are working to determine a cause and damage estimate. 

There were no injuries reported as a result of this incident. 

Saskatoon Fire Department responds to a House Fire at 313 Greenbryre Lane in Corman Park.

At 02:10 this morning The Saskatoon Fire Department received multiple 911 calls reporting a house was on fire at 313 Greenbryre Lane in Corman Park. 

Three Engines, two Water Tankers an Aerial Ladder a Heavy Rescue Truck and a Battalion Chief were dispatched to the scene.

First arriving crews arrived in minutes and found a two storey residential home that was under construction fully engulfed in fire, the flames from the fire were threatening the neighboring home at 317 Greenbryre Lane. Fire crews utilized their on board booster water tanks to protect the exposed home while command made sure the home had been evacuated.  Due to the lack of fire hydrants in the area crews were required to use water tanker trucks to supply water for the remainder of the attack.  The fire had destroyed the home under construction and the neighboring home was saved while sustaining minimal damage. Utility technicians were called to the scene to disconnect the power and gas.     

Fire crews remain on scene working to extinguish the remaining hot spots.

There were no injuries reported as a result of this fire.

A Fire Investigation Unit was called to the scene and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. 

Damages are estimated at $700,000.

With winter in Saskatchewan, we’re never sure what to expect – the Saskatoon Fire Department understands that plugging in your vehicle may become a priority as extreme cold temperatures move in.

When looking to plug your vehicle in this winter, ensure you are keeping yourself, your family, and your community safe by giving proper consideration to your process. Warming your vehicle’s engine in extreme cold temperatures involves a multitude of electrical components; all of which must be properly maintained and are susceptible to varying degrees of deterioration.

The Saskatoon Fire Department offers the following information on plugging in your vehicle this winter:

• Always use a heavy-duty, three wire, three pronged, extension cord that is rated for outdoor use,
• Be sure to check your block heater cord, as well as your extension cord, to make sure that neither are cracked or frayed,
• Always keep your block heater plug covered with its protective cap when not in use,
• Be sure to thoroughly clean off the prongs on both the block heater plug, as well as the extension cord ends,
• Check to make sure your block heater cord is positioned through the proper channels and is not pinched under the car or wrapped around sharp metal objects in the engine compartment, and
• Never drive over your extension cord, as this may cause additional wear on the cord and/or its plugs.

Accidentally driving away while your vehicle is still plugged in could cause extensive damage to your vehicle’s block heater, cord, and plug, your extension cord and plugs, as well as the electrical outlet being used. If you happen to drive away while your vehicle is still plugged in remember to check all of these areas for damage and, if necessary, replace damaged components before the vehicle is plugged in again.

REMEMBER: Vehicle fires are often the result of worn and damaged extension cords, and/or faulty block heater components!

In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

At approximately 9:53 this morning, the Saskatoon Fire Department and the Emergency Measures Organization responded to reports of a hazardous materials exposure at Parkridge Centre, located at 110 Gropper Crescent.

One Fire Engine, one Haz-Mat Unit, one Decontamination Unit, one Battalion Chief, and a Mobile Command Unit were initially dispatched to the scene. Fire Dispatchers identified for responding fire crews that the reported hazardous material involved was chlorine gas, a toxic and corrosive material.

Upon arrival, fire crews shut down the building's ventilation system to isolate the exposure. It was determined that the chlorine gas was the result of an error in procedure when mixing chlorine powder with water; it is believed to have been accidental in nature. Technicians from the Haz-Mat Unit tested the air quality in a number of locations potentially open to exposure and found a maximum reading of 0.2 parts-per-million (PPM) in one area, a minimal level for concern. 

A hazardous materials clean-up was conducted and one Aerial Ladder Truck later responded to the scene to ventilate and restore the air quality in the building.

Two civilians, both employees of the Parkridge Centre, were assessed on scene and declined transport to hospital. It is believed that both will consult a physician later today. 

A Safety Officer from the Saskatoon Fire Department was on scene monitoring fire crew safety and procedures. There was no environmental risk as a result of this exposure. Fire crews have now concluded their duties in relation to this incident.

House Fire at 613 Avenue H South causes house next door to ignite.

At 12:33 this afternoon The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call reporting a house was on fire at 613 Avenue H South. 

Three Engines an Aerial Ladder a Heavy Rescue Truck and a Battalion Chief were dispatched to the scene.

First arriving crews arrived in four minutes and found a single storey residential home with smoke and flames visible from the right side of the structure causing the vacant two storey home next door at 611 Ave H south to ignite. Fire command requested an additional Engine to assist with the attack.  Crews used attack hose lines on the visible flames while other crews prepared to enter the home at 613 to search for trapped occupants.  Once inside the home a thorough rescue search was conducted while continuing to extinguish areas involved in fire.  The initial fire was brought under control in ten minutes.  No occupants were found in either of the homes.

Portions of the walls and roof were removed from both homes while crews worked to extinguish any remaining hot spots and later used ventilation fans to clear the remaining smoke.

There were no injuries reported as a result of this fire.

A Fire Investigation Unit was called to the scene and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. 

Damages are estimated at $150,000 for 613 Ave. H S. and $80,000 for 611 Ave.H S.

House Fire at 311 Avenue S South

At 10:04 The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call reporting a house was on fire at 311 Avenue S South. 

Three Engines an Aerial Ladder a Rescue Truck and a Battalion Chief were dispatched to the scene.

First arriving crews arrived in four minutes and found a single storey residential home with smoke and flames visible from the windows on the front of the structure.  Crews used attack hose lines on the visible flames while other crews prepared to enter the home to search for trapped occupants.  Once inside the home crews conducted a thorough rescue search while extinguishing areas involved in fire.  The fire was brought under control in six minutes.  No occupants were found in the home.

Crews worked to extinguish any remaining hot spots and used ventilation fans to clear the remaining smoke.

There were no injuries reported as a result of this fire.

An investigator was called to the scene and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. 

Damages are estimated at $60,000.

At approximately 09:56 pm Saskatoon Fire Department responded to reported fire on the outside of house at 711 Ave E North. First responding Engine company  found flames showing at rear of a two and half story vacant house with boarded up doors and windows. Firefighters started a transitional attack and extinguished flames on the outside of house. Crews then entered house from the front and encounter heavy smoke and fire on second level of house, crews were able to complete a primary search of house before extreme heat and condition of house caused interior crews to back out and go to a defensive mode . Fire under control in approximately two and half hours from arrival and crews remained on scene for another three hours extinguishing all hot spots.

At approximately 1:30 this afternoon, the Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call alerting to a two vehicle MVA at the corner of Ave S.S and 19th St W. with possible entrapment.

The Saskatoon Fire Department immediately dispatched one Fire Engine, one Heavy Rescue Unit, and one Battalion Chief to the scene. 

Upon arrival, crews observed two half ton trucks that had collided with each other. The drivers of both trucks had exited their vehicles before fire crews had arrived. Four other passengers remained in one of the vehicles. It was determined by fire crews that extrication would not be required. 

All occupants of both vehicles were assessed for injuries by firefighter paramedics. Three children and two adults were transported to hospital for further assessment. 

Fire crews remained on scene for debris clean up.

At approximately 6:20 this evening the Saskatoon Fire Department received several 911 calls for a apartment fire at 127 Avenue U South. Three engine companies, 1 ladder truck and one rescue truck were dispatched to the scene.  

On arrival crews found suite 204 on the second floor of the apartment fully involved with fire. Crews made a quick attack from the exterior and then entered the building. Crews removed 1 male person from the fire suite. The pt was handed over to Medavie ambulance who transported him to hospital with undetermined injuries. Crews completed a primary search of the building and evacuated several people. The fire was quickly extinguished and was contained to the fire suite, There was heavy smoke damage to the rest of the building. The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time. Preliminary estimates of damage is $250,000.

At 10:33 pm tonight a 911 call reported smoke and flames from a boarded up house at 1701 22^nd street west. Three engine companies, one ladder truck and one rescue truck were dispatched.

On arrival crews found smoke and flames coming from a basement window of the house. Crew’s made a quick attack from the exterior, while the ladder truck removed plywood from the doors. Crews entered the house and found no occupant’s, then quickly extinguished the fire in the basement.

There were no injuries at this fire.

The fire is under investigation and there is no damage estimate at this time.

The City of Saskatoon operates several storm water retention ponds in neighbourhoods throughout the City. Many residents choose to use these ponds for recreational purposes, including skating and ice hockey. It is reminded that individuals who choose to use the storm water retention ponds for recreational purposes assume all associated risk in doing so.

The Saskatoon Fire Department has been regularly testing and monitoring ice thickness at ponds around the City to verify its safety. The ice must reach a minimum thickness of at least 8 inches to be considered safe for public recreational use. Signage posted at each pond will indicate whether or not the pond is safe for use. Be sure to check the posted signage each time you are considering using the pond. The sign will display a “No Skating” icon until the ice has been tested and is confirmed safe for public use, at which time a “Skating Permitted” icon will be displayed on the sign.

Community members choosing to use the ponds for recreational purposes are responsible for any maintenance of the ice that may be required, including shoveling, flooding, and safety.  

For more information regarding the Recreational Uses of Storm Water Retention Ponds policy, visit www.saskatoon.ca/ponds.

It is advised that individuals always exercise an elevated level of caution when using any ice-covered body of water for recreational purposes.

In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

At approximately 4:33 this afternoon, the Saskatoon Fire Department received an alert from an alarm company reporting a residential fire signal in the Victoria Place Apartments, located at 606 Victoria Avenue.

Two Fire Engines were immediately dispatched to the scene. While the responding fire crews were en-route, Fire Dispatchers made contact with a representative of the building and confirmed there to be a fire in a suite on the fourth floor. Along with the two Fire Engines already responding, one Aerial Ladder Truck, one additional Fire Engine, and a Battalion Chief were also dispatched. 

Upon arrival, fire crews observed smoke exiting the multi-story apartment complex through a fourth story balcony, the fire alarm sounding, and occupants of the complex performing an evacuation. The resident of the suite had extinguished the fire using a fire extinguisher before fire crews arrived. 

Heavy smoke was present, and significant ventilation was required to clear the suite and complex of smoke. The strategic decision was made to release additional fire crews from the scene, freeing up these resources to respond elsewhere in the city when necessary; however, one additional Aerial Ladder Truck was dispatched to the scene, as required, to aid in ventilating the complex. 

Fire crews have now completed the ventilation of the suite and complex using an electric fan, and have concluded their duties in relation to this incident.

A Fire Investigator remains on scene to identify a cause and determine a damage estimate. 

There were no injuries reported as a result of this incident. 

At approximately 12:00 this afternoon, the Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call alerting to a two vehicle collision on Highway 5 involving a 5 tonne transport truck and a passenger car.

Fire Dispatchers worked with the caller to determine additional details for responding fire crews, identifying that the passenger car involved, a Ford Taurus, was heavily damaged as a result of the collision and that two occupants remained trapped inside the smoking vehicle. The Saskatoon Fire Department immediately dispatched one Fire Engine, one Heavy Rescue Unit, and one Battalion Chief to the scene. The Aberdeen Fire Department, Medavie Health Services West, STARS, and the RCMP also responded to the call for service.

Upon arrival, it was determined that one occupant of the passenger car was deceased and that the second occupant required extrication from the vehicle. The driver of the transport truck had exited the truck before fire crews had arrived and was assessed for injuries.

Fire crews stabilized and de-energized the passenger car in preparation to extricate the second occupant from the vehicle. Firefighters were required to remove the entire roof, as well as the passenger side door in order to complete a successful and safe extrication. Simultaneously, the Saskatoon Fire Department assisted in the safe landing of a STARS helicopter onto Highway 5.  The patient was flown to Royal University Hospital with serious injuries.

The Saskatoon Fire Department has now concluded its duties in relation to this incident and the scene has been left with the RCMP for collision reconstruction.

This holiday season, the Saskatoon Fire Department reminds residents to be mindful of fire safety in and around their homes. The holidays are a time of celebration and cheer; with lights, decorations, trees, and gatherings, there are many things to consider in ensuring your home is fire safe this holiday season.

Holiday considerations to include are:

Decorative Lights:

Decorative lights are a great way to set the holiday spirit, but they can also pose a danger if not used in accordance with manufacturer direction. Always unplug your lights when you are not around to enjoy them, especially if leaving the house. Be mindful of the use of indoor and/or outdoor lights, using the appropriate light type accordingly. Never use lights that appear damaged in any way. Be sure that you are not overloading an outlet with too many power-drawing decorative items and lights.

Candles:

Many people choose to use candles year-round; however, the holiday season tends to bring an increase in the number of households lighting candles whether it be as a part of their holiday tradition or as a decorative addition to their home. Whatever the purpose, always be sure to put the candle out when you are not around to enjoy it. Unattended candles have the potential to make your holiday not so merry and bright. Take the time to consider where you are placing your candle and what combustible materials may be around.

Holiday Trees:

Setting up a tree in your home is a tradition for many over the holiday season. Whether you place a natural or artificial tree in your home, it is important to consider the safety elements regarding its placement, decorations, and upkeep. If you are planning to put lights on your tree, be sure to use the appropriate indoor, non-heat producing, CSA-approved light strands and double-check each strand to verify it has not been cracked, broken, or frayed from excessive use or storage. Keep your tree a safe distance from any heat source, including fireplaces, candles, space heaters, or furnace vents. If you are displaying a natural tree, cut 1 to 2 inches off of the bottom before positioning it in your home. Be sure to keep your natural tree watered and healthy to avoid it drying out.

Cooking:

Holiday meals and seasonal baking are must-haves each year; however, the Saskatoon Fire Department reminds the head-chefs, top bakers and wannabes of Saskatoon’s kitchens to remain present while cooking and/or baking this holiday season. Stay in the kitchen, focused and alert on what you are doing to prevent unintentionally inviting the Saskatoon Fire Department to your home for an over-cooked meal this holiday season. For meals that may take additional time to cook and/or prepare, the use of a timer can act as a reminder in monitoring your meal.

The Saskatoon Fire Department wishes all a safe holiday season; from our halls to yours, happy holidays!

In an emergency, call 911 immediately.