The Portage la Prairie Fire Department responded to seven wildland fires over this past weekend, marking a concerning start to the spring burn season. Fire Chief Brad Bailey is urging residents to exercise caution and follow local regulations as the region enters a period of heightened fire risk.
"This is the time of year people start cleaning up their properties. We just ask that people are responsible if they do start any grass fires to burn off dead grass from the previous year."
Bailey stressed the importance of notifying the fire department before any burns take place. Residents are asked to call 204-239-8383 to provide details such as start and end times of their burn. The city has strict rules prohibiting the burning of grass, debris, or leaves within city limits—only seasoned, split firewood in an approved fire pit is permitted.
"In the RM of Portage, burning is allowed under certain conditions. But no fires should be set when winds are over 15 kilometers per hour, and the fire must be monitored at all times. That means someone needs to be out there the entire time—it's not safe to leave it."
While seven fires in one weekend is not unprecedented, Bailey says it's a notable number.
"Seven fires is a fair amount. We've had busier and slower years, so I'd put that right in the middle. It's manageable, but if we go beyond that, it starts to strain our resources and take away from other emergencies."
Bailey warns that under dry and windy conditions; grass fires can become uncontrollable in seconds.
"In wildland situations, fire spreads as fast as the wind blows. Once it gets away, it's very difficult to get ahead of it."
He advises anyone considering a burn to not only check the weather but to plan around potential rain, which can help keep a fire under control.
"Nature can help us out. A light rain is actually a good time to burn because it helps keep things contained."
Residents are reminded that if you light it, you're responsible for it. Fire safety starts with preparation and common sense.
