Saskatoon Fire - News Releases
Saskatoon News Releases
Idylwyld Drive Underpass at 51st Street/Ave C
October 8, 2021 - 3:04 pm
Carbon monoxide – 1500 block of 37th Street West
October 8, 2021 - 2:30 pm
200 Block Avenue N South
October 7, 2021 - 11:13 am
Pink fire truck commemorates Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October 4, 2021 - 3:30 pm
For the sixth year, the Saskatoon Fire Department has partnered with the Saskatoon Firefighters Union IAFF 80 and Cowan Imaging Group to bring a pink fire truck to Saskatoon. Engine 13 will be sporting a pink wrap for the entire month of October in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“Breast cancer research is an initiative we’ve supported for many years,” says Deputy Chief Mike Ralston. “Our Fire Department is honoured to show our support to those who have been affected by breast cancer.”
Engine 13 will continue to be an integral part of the Saskatoon Fire Department’s fleet during October. When not in commission, the pink truck can be seen at various locations across Saskatoon.
“This truck not only symbolizes the fight against fires, but also the fight against breast cancer,” says Jay Protz, Union IAFF 80 representative. “We’re proud to raise funds for this important cause, especially knowing the money is helping patients right here at home in Saskatchewan.”
Saskatoon residents are encouraged to make donations to the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan throughout the month of October. All money donated to the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan stays in the province and goes toward early detection and treatment, health promotion, patient care, and cancer research. For information on how to make a donation, please visit cancerfoundationsask.ca/donate.
Vehicle hits house - Munroe Avenue & 12th Street
October 3, 2021 - 3:22 pm
Single vehicle rollover at 8th Street & Circle Drive
October 3, 2021 - 8:45 am
Update - Deck Fire on Crescent Boulevard
October 3, 2021 - 8:35 am
Deck fire - 1000 Block of Crescent Boulevard
October 2, 2021 - 10:05 am
- A fire investigator is on scene to conduct an examination to identify the cause, origin and damage estimate.
Fire Prevention Week October 3-9, 2021
October 1, 2021 - 11:00 am
- A continuous set of three loud beeps, “beep, beep, beep,” means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1 and stay out.
- A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed.
- All alarms must be replaced after 10 years, or sooner according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.
- Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms meet the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
The Saskatoon Fire Department is teaming up with The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote Fire Prevention Week (October 3-9, 2021). This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety” will focus on educating residents about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.
In a fire, mere seconds can mean the difference between a safe escape and a tragedy. Knowing what to do when an alarm sounds will keep you and your family safe.
“It’s important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When an alarm makes noise—a beeping sound or a chirping sound—you must take action,” says Yvonne Raymer, Assistant Fire Chief. “Make sure everyone in the home recognizes and understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond. To learn the sounds of your specific smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, test the alarms monthly by following the manufacturer’s instructions that come in the box, or search the brand and model online.”
The Saskatoon Fire Department wants to share safety tips to help you “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety”:
Chief Raymer adds, "Beginning July 1, 2022, carbon monoxide and smoke alarms will be mandatory in all Saskatchewan homes, regardless of the building’s age. Now is a great time to install these alarms if you don't already have them so you have time to plan where they should go and become familiar with how they operate."
To learn more about smoke alarms and other fire safety tips, visit saskatoon.ca/firesafety.
For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and fire prevention in general, visit nfpa.org/fpw.
Update - 100 Block of Pichler Crescent
October 1, 2021 - 9:35 am
100 Block of Pichler Crescent
September 30, 2021 - 6:11 pm
- A fire investigator is on scene to conduct an examination to identify the cause, origin and damage estimate.
Structure fire at 437 Avenue U South
September 29, 2021 - 4:10 pm
At 9:20 p.m. on Tuesday, September 28, 2021, the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) received a report of a structure fire. Three fire engines, a rescue unit, a ladder truck and the Battalion Chief were dispatched. Upon arrival, fire crews observed flames coming from the back of a house. All occupants were reported to be outside the home. Firefighters advanced a hose line to apply water to the exterior of the fire while utilities were shut down.
The fire was confirmed to be fully extinguished at approximately 10:20 p.m. and the scene was turned over to SFD’s fire investigator to determine the cause. The fire was deemed as suspicious. The scene was turned over to the Saskatoon Police Service for further investigation. Damage is estimated to be $120,000.
Fire in a tarped structure extends to garage - 100 Block Avenue N South
September 26, 2021 - 6:07 pm
- The fire has been completely extinguished.
- A search confirmed all occupants safely evacuated.
- There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.
- Further information will be provided as it becomes available.
Confined Space Check on Ave A & Spadina
September 23, 2021 - 2:53 pm
Motor vehicle rollover requires extrication on highway 14
September 16, 2021 - 10:58 am
Garage fire in the 800 Block of Avenue I South
September 16, 2021 - 10:34 am
- The fire has been completely extinguished.
- There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.
- A fire investigator is on scene to conduct an examination to identify the cause, origin and damage estimate.
- Further information will be provided as it becomes available.
Two vehicles on fire - 100 block of Ruth Street East
August 8, 2021 - 10:42 am
- The scene was turned over to Police for further investigation.
1100 Block of Spadina Crescent East
August 8, 2021 - 10:37 am
Update - 800 Block of Appleby Drive
March 17, 2021 - 1:36 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department has concluded its interviews and scene examination into the cause of the kitchen fire that occurred in the 800 Block of Appleby Drive yesterday.
Cause of the fire has been determined as accidental. Fire originated on the top of the stove due to an element being turned on by accident. This caused a cardboard pizza box to ignite that had been sitting on the element. Damage is still estimated to be $80,000.
Fire in a suite - 800 Block of Appleby Drive
March 16, 2021 - 12:49 pm
At 09:05 a.m. the Saskatoon Fire Department Communications Centre received a call for a fire in a suite at this property. Three engines, one rescue engine, aerial unit and the Battalion Chief were dispatched. First arriving Fire Officer reported smoke showing from the second floor. Fire Crews entered a suite on the second floor. This fire was brought under control at 09:24 a.m. The fire was contained to the suite. Ventilation to remove smoke from the building was performed by fire personnel.
The Fire Investigator is conducting a cause and origin scene examination at this time. Fire originated in the kitchen. Damage is estimated to be $80,000.
Further information will be provided once the fire investigation has concluded.
4 Vehicle Collision - 2000 Block of 22nd Street West
March 16, 2021 - 8:55 am
At 12:11 a.m., a multi vehicle accident was reported to the Saskatoon Fire Department Communications Centre. One engine, one rescue engine and the Battalion Chief were dispatched. On arrival, fire crews identified four vehicles involved. One patient was extricated by SFD and care of the patient was transferred to the ambulance service. All other persons involved in the accident were assessed by ambulance crews.
Prior to leaving the scene with the Saskatoon Police Service, fire crews ensured all vehicles were de-energized and fluids were not leaking onto the roadway.
Fatal Fire - 2621 Broadway Avenue
March 14, 2021 - 7:42 am
At 7:05 p.m., the Saskatoon Fire Department Communications Centre received a call reporting smoke visible on the ground floor of a 3 storey apartment building. Caller was instructed by the Fire Dispatcher to pull the pull station in the hallway to alert all occupants and leave the building. Three engines, an aerial, a rescue unit and the Battalion Chief were dispatched to this incident. The first engine company arrived at 7:08 p.m. and identified the fire in a suite on the ground floor. A Fire Investigator was dispatched to the incident.
Fire crews entered the suite and encountered heavy smoke. One individual was found deceased inside the suite.
The fire was brought under control at 7:39 p.m. Prior to leaving the scene with the Fire Investigator, the fire crews checked the building for CO and found 0 ppm.
The Fire Investigator has determined the cause of the fire to be accidental. Fire originated in the kitchen behind the fridge. Fire and smoke damage are estimated to be $120,000 to the building.
Carbon Monoxide - 20 Bateman Crescent
March 12, 2021 - 10:16 pm
At 6:17 p.m. the Saskatoon Fire Department Communications Centre received a 9-1-1 call from an occupant reporting a loud bang and the carbon monoxide alarms in the hallway ringing. One engine company was dispatched to investigate the report of the CO alarms ringing with no signs and symptoms of CO poisoning presenting from the residents. On arrival, the fire crews identified 1600 ppm of carbon monoxide. Additional fire personnel were requested to assist with evacuation. Three more engines, an aerial apparatus and the Battalion Chief were dispatched to the property.
SaskEnergy and City of Saskatoon Transit bus were requested to attend. The Fire Investigator was dispatched to the scene. It was identified that the exhaust serving the boiler had been broken on the exterior of the building. Children had been playing around the exhaust. It was reported to the fire crews that they had been hanging off the exhaust pipes which which caused the break at the exterior causing the ventilation to be damaged. This caused the boiler to be exhausted into the building instead of the exterior causing the high levels of carbon monoxide.
SaskEnergy worked with the property owner's to repair the ventilation. Repairs were complete, the boiler was restored and turned back on. SaskEnergy and fire crews took readings to ensure carbon monoxide is no longer being exhausted into the building. Residents were situated in a warm City Bus while repairs were conducted.
SaskEnergy has confirmed at this time that it is safe for residents to return to their suites.
Carbon Monoxide alarms save lives. Thank you to our partners at the City of Saskatoon Transit and SaskEnergy Technicians for their quick response and collaboration in keeping our community safe.
Structure Fire on Coppermine Cres
March 12, 2021 - 8:28 am
At 05:11 a.m. today, the Saskatoon Fire Department Communications Centre received a call of a fire in the attic on Coppermine Crescent. Three occupants of the home were instructed to evacuate the house. Four engines, one rescue, one ladder truck and the Battalion Chief were dispatched to the situation. The first arriving engine at 05:15 a.m. reported light smoke showing. Fire and smoke were identified in the ceiling space. Crews worked to access the attic and extinguish the fire in the ceiling and attic space. A Fire Investigator was dispatched to the incident. The fire was brought under control at 05:37 a.m.
There were no injuries to fire ground personnel or civilians at this fire.
The Fire Investigator has concluded the cause and origin investigation. Accidental electrical fire with a $150,000 damage.
Reminder from the SFD to test your smoke alarms to ensure all are in working order.
Single Vehicle Accident - Broadway Bridge
March 10, 2021 - 8:49 am
At 01:43 a.m. this morning, the Saskatoon Fire Department received a direct call from the Saskatoon Police Service notifying of a single vehicle collision at the top of the Broadway Bridge with entrapment. One engine company, one rescue engine and the Battalion Chief responded to the call. On arrival, our Fire Officer reported a single vehicle with two occupants and a street light down on top of the vehicle. Crew from the engine company assessed the scene for safety and the two occupants due to the street light lying on top of the vehicle. Crews began stabilizing and de-energising the vehicle in preparation for extrication.
The rescue engine used hydraulic cutting tools to remove the metal and hard plastic from around the driver while fire paramedics treated the driver inside and removed the passenger. Both patients were transported to hospital by ambulance crews.
Saskatoon Light and Power was on scene and ensured there were no electrical hazards to first responders as a result of the downed street light.
Structure Fire - 300 Block of Avenue J South
March 7, 2021 - 7:01 pm
At 6:23 p.m. the Saskatoon Fire Department Communications Centre received a report of a house fire in the 300 Block Avenue J South. Caller stated it was unknown if anyone was inside the structure. Four engines, one ladder truck, one rescue unit and the Battalion Chief were dispatched. On arrival, it was reported that the structure was heavily charged with black smoke. Interior suppression and entry were made by fire crews from the front and back door of the structure. Fire declared under control at 6:53 p.m. Firefighters are completing searches for occupants which is standard practice. Overhaul has begun on the structure to ensure any "hot spots" get fully extinguished.
The Fire Investigator has been dispatched and is responding to the fire scene at this time to conduct a cause and origin fire investigation. Estimate of fire damage at this time is $100,000.
Single Vehicle Rollover - Extrication Required
March 3, 2021 - 5:55 pm
At 10:13 a.m., the Saskatoon Fire Department received a call of a single vehicle rollover with one occupant trapped in the vehicle. The accident occurred at Highway 16 and Zimmerman Road. Two engines and the Battalion Chief were dispatched by our Communications Centre. Enroute, the responding fire crews encountered heavy fog conditions. The first arriving engine company reported a vehicle on its roof. Fire crew stabilized the vehicle and extrication was performed by the second arriving engine and its crew. An off duty firefighter had come upon the scene prior to the SFD's arrival and assisted with bystanders. The R.C.M.P. assisted at the scene.
The SFD personnel extricated one patient whose care was turned over to the ambulance service. All engine companies and crew returned to their stations safely and were in commission at 11:04 a.m.
Structure Fire in the RM of Corman Park
March 1, 2021 - 3:18 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a call from the R.C.M.P. at 1:11 p.m. reporting a structure fire in the R.M. of Corman Park on Dalmeny Road. Three engines, one rescue unit, one brush truck, one tanker and the Battalion Chief were dispatched by our Communications Centre. On arrival, the Fire Officer reported a garage fully involved and encroaching onto the attached house. Two occupants of the home were transported to hospital with minor injuries. A dog succumbed in this fire and a cat was resuscitated with the use of our Rescue Unit's pet mask.
The fire was brought under control at 2:03 p.m. Fire crews remain on scene at this time.
Fire damage is estimated to be $200,000 to the structure, vehicles and contents.
Motor Vehicle Accident - Extrication Required
February 28, 2021 - 8:37 pm
At 6:43 pm, Saskatoon Fire Dispatch received a call for a motor vehicle accident approximately 16 km west of the City of Saskatoon on Highway 14. An engine company, a rescue unit and the Battalion Chief were dispatched to the scene. On arrival, Asquith Fire Department was on scene extricating a patient from one vehicle and the Saskatoon Fire Department assisted with a second extrication from another vehicle. Stars arrived on scene awaiting to transport patients. Stars Aircraft landed at the scene at 7:10 pm and transported 1 patient to hospital.
At this time, fire apparatus and crews are returning to their stations. Thanks to Asquith Fire Service for their collaboration at this incident.
Garage Fire - 200 Block of Nixon Crescent
February 28, 2021 - 9:34 am
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a call at 6:38 p.m. yesterday evening of an extinguished fire. Occupants had extinguished a small fire in the garage of the 200 Block of Nixon Crescent. A single engine was dispatched to investigate the extinguished fire. Upon further questioning by the Fire Dispatcher, it was determined that black smoke was still visible inside the garage. An upgrade of apparatus to the call was initiated and an additional two engines, one rescue unit, an aerial and the Battalion Chief were dispatched a minute later.
On arrival, smoke was showing from the roof of the garage. The contents inside the garage were extinguished but heat was identified by fire crews in the wall. Identifying the area of heat with their thermal imaging camera, a pump tank was used to fully extinguish the fire. The attic was checked to ensure no fire extension had occurred. A Fire Investigator was dispatched to the incident. After checking the home for carbon monoxide, occupants were allowed back inside. Fire crews returned to station.
The Fire Investigator determined this was an accidental fire. A hot plate was accidentally turned on. Damage is estimated to be $10,000.
Vehicle driven into building on Central Avenue
February 23, 2021 - 1:39 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 12:24pm reporting a vehicle inside a building at 705 Central Avenue. Dispatched to the scene were two engines, a rescue and a battalion chief.
Upon arrival crews were presented with a vehicle that traveled into a store front and simultaneously firefighter/paramedics began treatment of two patients with injuries, stabilizing the vehicle to prevent movement and isolating heat sources to prevent a fire.
Transported to hospital were two patients, and a firefighter/paramedic to aid in pre-hospital treatment.
The scene is being turned over to Saskatoon Police Service for further investigation.
Ammonia leak on Spadina Crescent East
February 22, 2021 - 9:55 am
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 8:53 am reporting an ammonia leak at the 600 block of Spadina Crescent East. Dispatched to the scene was an engine, a hazmat unit and the battalion chief.
Crews arrived to find a small refrigerator in a suite leaking ammonia. Hazmat technicians secured the refrigerator, wrapping in plastic and carried from the building. The refrigerator was then turned over to the building management.
There was no one in the suite at the time of the leak, and there were no injuries to civilians of firefighters.
Garage fire in Hudson Bay Park
February 20, 2021 - 6:39 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 at 3:53 pm on Saturday afternoon reporting fire coming from a garage on the 1100 block of Ave J North. Dispatched to the scene were three engines, a ladder, rescue, battalion chief and fire investigator.
Upon arrival flames were observed coming from a detached garage and crews were assigned to advance hose lines and begin suppression activities. The fire was quickly brought under control and extinguished.
There were two cars on the garage at the time of the fire. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.
The scene was turned over to the fire investigator who was able to conclude the fire started because of grinding ingiting flammable vapours. Damage is estimated at $60,000.00.
Garage fire on Cartier Crescent
February 14, 2021 - 11:39 am
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call on Saturday evening reporting a fire on the 100 block of Cartier Crescent. Dispatched to the scene were 3 engines, a ladder, rescue, battalion chief and fire investigator.
First arriving firefighters were presented with a fully involved garage fire and crews were directed to advance hose lines to knock down flames from the exterior before proceeding into the structure.
Once the fire was brought under control, a subsequent search discovered a deceased dog. There were no other injuries to civilians of firefighters.
An additional engine was dispatched to the scene to relieve firefighters working in extreme cold temperatures to aid with final overhaul activities to ensure extinguishement and pack up equipment.
The cause of the fire is undetermined and not considered suspicious. Damage is estimated to be $25,000.00.
Update - House fire in Mayfair
February 7, 2021 - 10:24 am
The investigation into the cause of the fire continues, however damages have been estimated at $100,000.00. Unfortunately, four dogs and two parrots did not survive.
There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.
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The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 4:35 am from the occupant of a house on the 1200 block Avenue D North reporting a fire. The caller stated several pets remained in the house and were directed not to re-enter the building. Dispatched to the seen are three engines, one rescue, one ladder, a battalion chief and a fire investigator.
First arriving firefighters found the occupants outside and observed flames through a window on the front of the house. One crew was assigned to begin fighting the fire through this front window while a second made entry to search the house for occupants and pets and attack the fire.
Once the fire was brought under control, an additional engine was dispatched to relieve working firefighters. All staff who were originally dispatched to this fire were returned to their stations while this single engine and fire investigator remain on scene.
More information will be provided as it becomes available.
House fire in Mayfair
February 7, 2021 - 7:39 am
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 4:35 am from the occupant of a house on the 1200 block Avenue D North reporting a fire. The caller stated several pets remained in the house and were directed not to re-enter the building. Dispatched to the seen are three engines, one rescue, one ladder, a battalion chief and a fire investigator.
First arriving firefighters found the occupants outside and observed flames through a front window on the front of the house. One crew was assigned to begin fighting the fire through this front window while a second made entry to search the house for occupants and pets and attack the fire.
Once the fire was brought under control, an additional engine was dispatched to relieve working firefighters. All staff who were originally dispatched to this fire were returned to their stations while this single engine and fire investigator remain on scene.
More information will be provided as it becomes available
Update - Fatal house fire in Pleasant Hill
February 3, 2021 - 11:27 am
Fire Department and Saskatoon Police Service investigators are continuing to work together to determine the cause of this fire while damages are estimated to be $120,000.00.
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The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 8:06 pm reporting flames coming from a house in the 200 block of Avenue N South. Dispatched to the seen are three engines, one rescue, one ladder, a battalion chief and a fire investigator.
First arriving firefighters observed flames on the main floor and smoke pouring from the second floor. Crews were assigned to make entry to search the house for occupants and attack the fire. Upon initial entry crews discovered an unconscious person and immediately removed from the building. It was determined immediately the occupant was deceased.
Fire crews remain on scene working to extinguish hot spots. A fire investigator is in the early evolution of determining the cause of the fire.
More information will be provided as it becomes available.
Fatal house fire in Pleasant Hill
February 2, 2021 - 9:07 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 8:06 pm reporting flames coming from a house in the 200 block of Avenue N South. Dispatched to the scene are three engines, one rescue, one ladder, a battalion chief and a fire investigator.
First arriving firefighters observed flames on the main floor and smoke pouring from the second floor. Crews were assigned to make entry to search the house for occupants and attack the fire. Upon initial entry crews discovered an unconscious person and immediately removed from the building. It was determined immediately upon removal the occupant was deceased.
Fire crews remain on scene working to extinguish hot spots. A fire investigator is in the early evolution of determining the cause of the fire.
More information will be provided as it becomes available.
Update - Fire Department ensures highrise safety: no residents displaced as repairs made
January 30, 2021 - 6:25 am
The Saskatoon Fire Department has completed its oversight of work to repair fire and life safety systems.
The fire alarm and sprinkler systems are now working to provide early warning in the event of a fire. Portable fire extinguishers were installed, and all suites were checked for operable smoke alarms.
The building was turned over to the owners just before midnight.
….
The Saskatoon Fire Department recently became aware of deficiencies to fire and life safety systems in a building at 1416, 20th Street West.
“During a recent call to the building, firefighters identified concerns with the operability of the fire alarm system, sprinkler system and fire extinguishers,” says Assistant Chief Wayne Rodger. “ As a result, the Fire Department issued a Notice to Remedy for this address.”
Rodger says the department also arranged qualified technicians to repair these systems and make sure they are operable, so residents have a safe living space.
Work on these systems will commence at 6:30 p.m. tonight, Friday January 29.
“We collaborated with many people on this course of action and the goal is to have the building safety systems operational and safe for occupants by Saturday morning.
Residents will not be confined, but to ensure compliance with the Provincial Health Orders, residents are being asked to stay in their suites while the work is completed.
The Saskatoon Police Service has agreed to support the technicians by helping provide a secure work site for them. Officers will also escort residents if they need to leave or enter the building.
Fire Department ensures highrise safety: no residents displaced as repairs made
January 29, 2021 - 7:00 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department recently became aware of deficiencies to fire and life safety systems in a building at 1416, 20th Street West.
“During a recent call to the building, firefighters identified concerns with the operability of the fire alarm system, sprinkler system and fire extinguishers,” says Assistant Chief Wayne Rodger. “ As a result, the Fire Department issued a Notice to Remedy for this address.”
Rodger says the department also arranged qualified technicians to repair these systems and make sure they are operable, so residents have a safe living space.
Work on these systems will commence at 6:30 p.m. tonight, Friday January 29.
“We collaborated with many people on this course of action and the goal is to have the building safety systems operational and safe for occupants by Saturday morning.
Residents will not be confined, but to ensure compliance with the Provincial Health Orders, residents are being asked to stay in their suites while the work is completed.
The Saskatoon Police Service has agreed to support the technicians by helping provide a secure work site for them. Officers will also escort residents if they need to leave or enter the building.
Dumpster fire at Sherbrooke Community Centre
January 28, 2021 - 7:53 am
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call 2:16am from nursing staff reporting smell and haze of smoke on the main level of Sherbrooke Community Centre on Acadia Drive. Dispatched to the scene were three engines, a ladder, rescue, battalion chief and fire investigator.
Upon arrival crews were ordered into the building and encountered very light smoke and began the search for the source. This search eventually led them to the garbage room and located the fire inside a large metal dumpster. This dumpster was rolled out of the building and safely extinguished.
The occupants weren't evacuated as the fire was confined to the metal dumpster in an enclosed garbage room. Fire crews set up large fans to remove any lingering smoke from the building. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters.
The fire investigator confirms the fire began in an enclosed dumpster, while the investigation continues as to the exact cause. There was minimal damage resulting the need for cleaning of some surfaces.
Saskatoon Fire Department responds to serious carbon monoxide incident
January 15, 2021 - 12:21 pm
Saskatoon firefighters last night helped avoid a carbon monoxide poisoning that could have resulted in multiple deaths.
“There’s no doubt, many lives were saved,” says Fire Chief Morgan Hackl.
At 6:03 p.m. Thursday, January 14, 2021, the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) received a call reporting potential carbon monoxide at an apartment building at 12 Bateman Crescent.
Engine 15 was dispatched for immediate response. Upon arrival, crews used a detector inside the building and confirmed the presence of carbon monoxide with an initial reading of 350 ppm. The main hallway of the basement showed readings of over 200 ppm. Tenants were instructed to evacuate and SFD crews began checking each suite of the building for occupants. Approximately 50 occupants evacuated the building safely. 27 people were transported to hospital and 20 others seeked medical attention. A total of 4 apparatus, one battalion chief and 22 SFD staff were involved at the scene.
“This was a serious incident that could have turned out very differently” says Fire Chief Morgan Hackl. “The Saskatoon Fire Department urges all residential homes and multi-unit residences to have Carbon Monoxide alarms. They save lives.”
SaskEnergy was contacted and performed an investigation of the building. The boiler room showed a reading of 412 ppm. Further analysis revealed the boiler had rusted and the exhaust was being pumped into the building. 12 Bateman Crescent remains closed until repairs are completed.
“The Saskatoon Fire Department and SaskEnergy’s Fire Inspectors are proactively assessing other neighbouring buildings,” says Assistant Chief, Yvonne Raymer.
20 Bateman Cresent has also been closed due to boiler issues and improper ventilation. Approximately 50 residents have been evacuated from the second apartment building. It is still unknown when residents will be able to return to their suites. The property owner is arranging for hotel rooms for evacuated residents and has secured 30 carbon monoxide alarms to be installed in the common areas and boiler room.
This event is an important reminder for residents to protect their homes from carbon monoxide poisoning:
Ensure gas equipment and appliances are properly installed, maintained, and inspected by a licensed contractor, Keep furnace, water heater, chimney vents and pipes free of obstructions, such as leaves, debris or nests and frost, snow, and ice in winter months. Follow manufacturer directions for proper operation and care of all heating equipment and appliances, Only use generators, barbeques and portable propane heaters outside, and Never leave a vehicle or fuelled engine running while indoors.
Update - Commercial building fire on Dudley Street
January 6, 2021 - 8:24 am
The fire investigator has completed the on-scene examination and the cause of the fire remains undetermined. Damages are estimated at $125,000.00
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Fire crews have completed the extinguishment of the fire and left the scene. The fire investigator remains to sift the debris to determine what caused the fire.
The first arriving firefighters observed smoke and flames coming from the building. Crews were assigned to advance hose lines into the building, seek out the areas on fire and worked to contain fire to an area inside the building, eventually extinguishing all hot spots. At the same time a search of the building was conducted to ensure no one remained inside. There are no injuries civilians or firefighters.
The cause of the fire and estimated damages with be forthcoming as the fire investigation continues.
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The Saskatoon Fire Department in currently at structure fire in a commercial building in the 2400 block of Dudley Street. Fire Department Dispatch received a call from an alarm monitoring company at 5:50 pm indicating a fire signal. Dispatched to the scene are four engines, a ladder, rescue battalion chief and fire investigator.
Fire crews are still on scene and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
Update - Commercial building fire on Dudley Street
January 5, 2021 - 8:22 pm
Fire crews have completed the extinguishment of the fire and left the scene. The fire investigator remains to sift the debris to determine what caused the fire.
The first arriving firefighters observed smoke and flames coming from the building. Crews were assigned to advance hose lines into the building, seek out the areas on fire and worked to contain fire to an area inside the building, eventually extinguishing all hot spots. At the same time a search of the building was conducted to ensure no one remained inside. There are no injuries civilians or firefighters.
The cause of the fire and estimated damages with be forthcoming as the fire investigation continues.
….
The Saskatoon Fire Department in currently at structure fire in a commercial building in the 2400 block of Dudley Street. Fire Department Dispatch received a call from an alarm monitoring company at 5:50 pm indicating a fire signal. Dispatched to the scene are four engines, a ladder, rescue battalion chief and fire investigator.
Fire crews are still on scene and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
Commercial building fire on Dudley Street
January 5, 2021 - 6:29 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department in currently at structure fire in a commercial building in the 2400 block of Dudley Street. Fire Department Dispatch received a call from an alarm monitoring company at 5:50 pm indicating a fire signal. Dispatched to the scene are four engines, a ladder, rescue battalion chief and fire investigator.
Fire crews remain on scene and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
Update - Garage fire on Gathercole Crescent
January 3, 2021 - 8:51 pm
The fire investigator has completed their examination of the fire scene and determined this fire was caused by a malfunctioning electrical extension cord and that resulted in an estimated $70,000.00 damage.
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The Saskatoon Fire Department received 911 calls at 2:53 pm Sunday January 3, 2021, reporting fire in a garage on Gathercole Crescent. Callers reported flames coming from an attached garage in the 200 block.
Dispatched to attend are 3 engines, a ladder, rescue, battalion chief and fire investigator. The first arriving firefighters advanced hose lines to begin knocking down flames and battled fire extending into the roof. A search of the home confirmed occupants were safely out of the house. The are no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters.
The fire investigator remains on scene working to determine the cause of the fire. Further information will be provided once it becomes available.
Garage fire on Gathercole Crescent
January 3, 2021 - 4:42 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department received 911 calls at 2:53 pm Sunday January 3, 2021, reporting fire in a garage on Gathercole Crescent. Callers reported flames coming from an attached garage in the 200 block.
Dispatched to attend are 3 engines, a ladder, rescue, battalion chief and fire investigator. The first arriving firefighters advanced hose lines to begin knocking down flames and battled fire extending into the roof. A search of the home confirmed occupants were safely out of the house. The are no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters.
The fire investigator remains on scene working to determine the cause of the fire. Further information will be provided once it becomes available.
Garage fire caused by hot ashes
December 31, 2020 - 1:35 pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 10:33 am this morning reporting a garage on fire in the 200 block of Lake Crescent. Dispatched to the scene were three engines, a ladder, rescue battalion chief and fire investigator.
The first arriving firefighters observed smoke emitting from a detached garage. Crews were assigned to bring water to the front of the garage and gain entry. The interior to the garage contained a significant number of items that contributed to an increased fire load and inhibited crews from easily gaining access to the seat of the fire.
Once the overhead door was opened crews were able to gain access to the interior and extinguish the fire.
The fire investigator has completed the on-scene examination and has concluded the fire started as a result of improperly disposed woodstove ash. Damages are estimated at $75,000.00.
The Saskatoon Fire Department reminds all users of wood burning appliances, including fire pits, to be diligent when disposing of ash after a fire as there may be hot embers that can cause unintended fires.
House fire in College Park
December 28, 2020 - 8:45 am
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 8:41 pm on Sunday December 27, 2020 reporting a house fire on the 700 block of Trent Crescent. Dispatched to the scene were three engines a ladder, rescue, battalion chief and fire investigator.
The first arriving firefighters observed light smoke from the home and proceeded to advance hose lines into the building. A search confirmed all occupants had evacuated, one who suffered burns to their hands.
The fire investigation has determined a cardboard box containing refuse was set alight to dispose of the contents. Unfortunately, this occurred inside the house and the occupants were not able to remove the box to the outside before it got out of control.
Damage caused by this fire is estimated to be $150, 000.00.
House fire in Silverspring
December 28, 2020 - 7:12 am
The Saskatoon Fire Department received a 911 call at 2:14 pm on Sunday December 27, 2020, the call reporting fire in a wall. Dispatched to the scene were three engines, a ladder, rescue, battalion chief and fire investigator.
First arriving firefighters observed smoke coming from a home on the 200 block of Rever Road. A walk around the building discovered fire venting form a rear window, soon followed by fire breaking out of a second window.
Fire crews began by applying water through windows to knock down the flames, followed quickly by entering the homes and attacking the seat of the fire. A search of the interior confirmed all occupants had evacuated.
The fire investigation has been completed and determined the fire started in a wall above a wood stove. Damage caused by the fire is estimated at $275,000.00.