The Carman Dufferin Fire Department (CDFD) had a busy May, attending numerous calls for grass and hydro line fires.
Fire Chief Chris Lemky said department resources were particularly put to the test on May 14 when firefighters responded to six calls throughout the area, requiring mutual aid from Elm Creek to assist with one of the incidents.
Lemky noted dry, windy conditions were factors in fueling many of the fires, prompting a brief burn ban from May 14 to May 19.
After a much-needed weekend of rain, he said conditions have improved, but he still advises residents to remain fire smart.
“It is still good to be prepared when having any kind of fire outdoors, especially in spring and fall when conditions in our area are typically the driest,” he said.
His tips for the season include:
• Having water or fire extinguishers on hand to ensure fires are completely extinguished following a burn
• Mowing grass and vegetation around yards and burn areas to minimize the spread of fire
• Treating all downed hydro lines as live and staying clear of the area until deemed safe by Manitoba Hydro
The CDFD will continue monitoring environmental conditions, and residents are encouraged to check social media and municipal websites to see whether a burn ban is in place.
