A spokesperson for Manitoba Sustainable Development says the forest fire that had been burning out of control in the Rural Municipality of Piney is now 100 per cent contained. Earl Simmons says there are no longer any concerns with that fire.
Simmons says there are about 22 hotspots in the middle of that fire and still four crews left on scene. But he notes on Sunday they released a helicopter and are now down to two helicopters on that fire. As well, the incident management team which supports large efforts will be released Tuesday. Following that, the fire will be turned back over to the district to deal with.
“We’re feeling really confident about that fire,” reports Simmons.
Monday will have humidity levels that are lower than temperatures. Simmons says that will create peak burning conditions. And though that will not pose a threat to the RM of Piney fire, Simmons says it is of concern for any new fires that could pop up.
Meanwhile, Simmons says they will do some scanning to ensure the fire is out at Falcon Lake. About 20 hectares burned over the weekend along the Trans Canada Highway. Simmons explains a broken leaf spring was dragged along the highway, then heated up, snapped off, went flying into the grass and started a fire. Crews had the eastbound lanes closed while fighting the fire. Simmons says they used four water bombers, one helicopter and three crews. He adds with the ice off Falcon Lake they were able to scoop water from nearby.
Simmons reminds the public that no open fires are allowed at this time. Level one travel restrictions are in place, which means no backcountry travel between 8 am and 8 pm. He says if weather conditions do not change, it will quickly be bumped to Level two travel restrictions. This means no backcountry travel without travel permits
This is great news and a lot of hard work from the firemen and women , and all the local volunteers that feed the crews each day. PLEASE note the comment of travel restrictions being bumped to a Level 2 soon if we do not see rains soon.
Thanks
Sandhogs Exec