If you were driving around on Tuesday evening (August 18th), you may have noticed large plumes of smoke coming from atop the south of the valley.
There happened to be a large fire outside of the valley, south of Nacmine. Drumheller Fire Chief Derian Rosario shares that the fire involved a combine. “We were in our primary response area in Kneehill County. We got called out at about 6:15 last night for a combine fire, and then that combine fire also spread to the crop. It was quite challenging due to the high temperatures and the wind up top. It was quite large. I had a lot of resources out of Drumheller, and also Carbon Fire and Munson Fire attend.”
When crews first arrived the fire was large but it did grow. “On arrival, it was about 30 acres involved,” notes Rosario. “Probably by the time we had it all under control and extinguished, it was probably another 20 (acres). Probably around 45 to 50 acres that was lost.”
Even with all the flames, it looks like the combine may not be a loss. “The combine is actually in pretty good condition. Kneehill Fire investigators are looking at the combine to find origin and cause. As of now, no other entities were damaged or hurt.”
Having partnerships with area fire departments are key, according to Rosario, to keep not only Drumheller but all of our surrounding area protected. “Having the mutual aid agreements between our municipalities is critical. Working with, training, and interfacing with those other teams is critically important as well. When we have to (work together), we come together very well and able operate. No entity, or municipality, can do it on their own. Having the support of your friends and neighbours, and being able to do the same for them when they need it, is absolutely amazing.”
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