Two grassfires quickly contained, arson suspected

Toni Lucas

Fire personnel in Pincher Creek were called out to two separate grass fires the morning of December 7.

The first started approximately 4:30 am, close to the Ramada Inn. The second broke close to the junction of highway 6 and highway 3, at Pincher Station around 6 am. At this point in time, arson is suspected for both of these fires, and the investigations are ongoing.

Fire Chief Dave Cox stated that both were brought under control quickly, partially due to the time of day, and weather conditions. He warns that under different conditions, it would have travelled faster, and farther. "There is no safe time to have a fire start," said Cox. He pointed out that due to lack of snowfall, and a dry fall season the vegetation is 100% cured, containing almost no moisture. These conditions are prevalent across most of southern Alberta at this point in time, making it easier both for a fire to start, and for it to spread.

Cox urges the utmost caution when doing any activity that may start a fire. The results of a moment of carelessness may result in widespread devastation. To deliberately start a fire is criminal offence.