UPDATE:
The grass fire south of Beiseker is now under control, according to a May 13 afternoon update from Rocky View County.
"Crews will remain on scene to monitor any hot spots while emergency responders begin to depart the area," the County stated.
"Thank you to fire fighters from Rocky View County stations located in Irricana, Langdon, and Balzac, along with crews from our mutual aid partners of Redwood Meadows, Crossfield, Airdrie, and Acme. These crews gained control of a large, rapidly moving, wind driven grass fire that threatened several residential homes along Highway 9. Their prompt and coordinated actions have ensured no loss of life or property."
In light of the fire, residents are asked to continue avoiding the area if possible, while crews remain on scene, and assess their property to eliminate any possible fire hazards and fuel sources as possible. RVC also asks residents to enrol in the County's Safe and Sound notification system to ensure their family receives timely emergency alert information at www.rockyview.ca/safe-and-sound.
ORIGINAL STORY:
A large grass fire is currently burning near Highway 9 south of Beiseker.
The County issued social media posts in the last hour to warn people of the fires and to avoid the area if possible, stating the fire was located near Range Roads 261 and 262, and Township Road 280.
"A number of emergency responders are on site," a tweet from the County stated. "Wind direction is rapidly changing, and visibility may be affected."
RVC's post added nearby highways and roads may be closed without notice due to smoke. "All residents in the affected area should prepare for possible evacuation and follow the directions of local authorities," it added.
RVC Fire Services could not be immediately reached for comment. However, social media posts on a Beiseker community Facebook page earlier today included photos of the blaze. The photos showed the fire was burning near a railway track, and one resident claimed to have seen the fire start after a train passed through.
