As wildfires continue to threaten parts of Manitoba, fire departments from across the province are stepping up to provide support.
The Austin Fire Department dispatched five of its members on Friday to help combat the ongoing blazes in the Whiteshell area. The members spent the day in the region and will reassess their need heading into the weekend.
A part-time member of the Portage la Prairie Fire Department is also in the region as part of the provincial ground search and rescue team.
Austin Fire responds to Whiteshell fires
James Zacharias, Fire Chief of the Austin Fire Department, provides insight into their recent deployment to the Whiteshell.
"Yesterday, the province put out a plea for extra help from the fire service, which is something that happens quite regularly," Zacharias says.
The department sent five members, along with their wildland truck Alpha 2, to assist in tackling the fires.
Rain was expected to offer some much-needed relief on Friday.
Rainfall brings hope for fire control
Conditions in Austin are improving thanks to the rainfall received over the past couple of days.
"The rain has really lessened the fire risk, especially wildfire risk," Zacharias continues. "So, it’s made me just a lot more confident."
RM of North Norfolk lifts burn ban
In the RM of North Norfolk, the burn ban that was implemented earlier due to fire risks has now been lifted. MacGregor's Fire Chief Chris Leckie provides an update on the decision to lift the burn ban.
"With the moisture received the last couple days, conditions have improved and we have lifted the burn ban for the municipality," Leckie says. "There’s no restrictions."
Leckie notes the positive response from the community while the burn ban was in place.
"We’re very appreciative of the community and the municipality for adhering to all the restrictions at that time," Leckie adds.
The lifting of the burn ban comes after much-needed rain, which has eased the fire risk in the region.
"It’s a significant amount that has been needed for the area and beyond," Leckie remarks. "It was a good amount of moisture and nice to see."
Firefighting coordination across Manitoba
Both departments emphasize the importance of cooperation and support during these challenging times. While it is not common for the Austin Fire Department to send resources outside their jurisdiction, Zacharias highlights that it is a key part of Manitoba's collaborative approach to firefighting.
"We will send people when it works for us here," Zacharias says.
In the RM of North Norfolk, the community's cooperation and the improved conditions have made it possible to lift the burn ban and restore some sense of normalcy.
"Hopefully, with the rain, the fire risk continues to lessen," Leckie added