Crews gain control over parts of blaze
There are currently no new threats posed by the wildfires that broke out in northeast Saskatchewan near Pelican Narrows.
Steve Roberts, executive director of the Ministry of Environment’s wildfire management branch, said the fires are considered to be stable as there has been no increase to their size and fire crews were able to gain “significant control” over portions of the blaze on Thursday.
Roberts confirmed the fire has been secured in the area closest to Pelican Narrows and local infrastructure, including SaskPower and SaskTel substations, were also secured by crews working with a dozer. As of Friday morning, there were no reports of damage.
More than 150 people have been deployed to battle the blaze with seven pieces of heavy equipment. More than 15 helicopters are also in the area and if deemed necessary, crews can also call in the province’s fleet of air tankers.
Duane McKay, commissioner of emergency management and fire safety for the Ministry of Government Relations, said staff are working to support those who remained in the restricted areas by transporting in groceries and providing transportation out of the area if necessary. McKay suggested people contact community organizations like the Red Cross to volunteer or donate money.
Emergency support is also being provided to the 2,117 people evacuated from the area; 911 are in Saskatoon and 1,206 in Prince Albert.
Some highways into the affected areas have been closed, including Highway 106 from the junction of Highway 135 to Creighton and Highway 135 north of Pelican Narrows due to heavy smoke.
There are fire bans in place in all parks and recreation sites south of the Churchill River.