In the afternoon of July 28th, the Weyburn Police Service were called to the scene of a possible structure fire alongside the Weyburn Fire Department. Upon arrival, they did see smoke coming from the residence, however, Sergeant Riley Ross explains it was not a structure fire.
“It was determined that it wasn't a structure fire and that it was located in a garbage can in the residence, and a cigarette was inside the garbage can that started smoke within the house.”
Firefighters assisted the homeowner in airing out the residence, but Sgt. Ross says there's an important reason why police are also called to potential structure fires. They play a significant role in securing the scene and maintaining safety.
“Anytime there's any type of structure fire or report of a fire, police are also dispatched to assist fire in any way. Typically, it's more so for traffic control or pedestrian control to help keep that scene safe for the public and for the police and the other emergency response personnel.”
He reminds anyone smoking or handling any kind of incendiary device to take safety precautions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“Handle that safely and make sure that it's disposed of safely, and likely not in a garbage can. An ashtray should be used or something on the exterior.”