Grass fire in Springbank ‘being held’ after threatening nearby community

A grass fire in Springbank that was burning out of control early Thursday evening is now being held, a spokesperson with Rocky View Country said.

In a release, Cochrane RCMP said the fire burning near Springbank Heights Drive and Springbank Heights Way was threatening residents in the area. 

Rocky View County said the fire’s location, on a forested hillside, made it difficult to contain from the ground, but air support helped prevent it from spreading.

“Fire protection remains in place for nearby homes,” the county said in a statement. The county said crews will continue working throughout the evening to put out any hot spots. 

An evacuation centre set up at Springbank Park for All Seasons at 32224A Springbank Rd will remain open for impacted residents. 

Earlier, police had warned residents to prepare to be evacuated due to the danger of the fire.

Rocky View County said Wednesday night’s water main break in Calgary is not impacting the area, but the county is currently under a fire ban.

“The ability to provide fire suppression services and access to water is critical,” reads a statement. “We ask residents to follow all restrictions, including no permit burning and the suspension of any outstanding burning and fireworks permits.”

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