Written by Jenny Hagan WestCentralonline.com
A fire that destroyed two abandoned structures and burned approximately 160 acres near Eston was brought under control following a major response involving multiple fire departments, farmers and community members.
The fire broke out just after 11:00 a.m. with the Eston Fire Department putting a call out for water trucks around 1:00 p.m.
The Eston and District Fire Department confirmed the blaze was fully extinguished by 7:33 p.m., with all responding fire departments returning safely to their respective halls.
Eston Fire Chief Jordan Hutchinson said the fire appears to have originated from electrical services, although the exact cause remains under investigation and is expected to be confirmed in the coming days.
Heavy winds complicated firefighting efforts, allowing the flames to spread from a yard into a nearby stubble field.
According to Hutchinson, two abandoned structures were destroyed in the fire.
However, firefighters and those assisting were able to protect equipment and grain bins in the yard before the flames spread into the neighbouring field.
Strong winds created challenging conditions as the fire moved through the dry stubble, eventually burning approximately 160 acres before crews extinguished it.
The wind-driven spread increased the need for additional firefighting resources, prompting a coordinated response from neighbouring departments and members of the agricultural community.
Despite the loss of the two abandoned structures, the successful protection of valuable equipment and grain storage infrastructure helped prevent further property losses.
As firefighters battled the flames, local farmers and neighbours stepped up with equipment and resources to help contain the fire.
Several brought water trucks and Pro-Till equipment, while the Rural Municipality of Snipe Lake contributed a grader to assist with the response.
The Eston and Springfield colonies also provided assistance.
The fire department had earlier appealed to the public for additional water, with residents sharing the request to help firefighters secure the resources needed.
Hutchinson thanked everyone who responded, recognizing the importance of community assistance during the lengthy firefighting operation.
The Elrose Fire Department and Ambulance and the Eatonia Fire Department joined the Eston and District Fire Department in battling the blaze.
The mutual-aid response allowed crews to combine personnel, equipment and resources as they worked against the strong winds and spreading flames.
Support also came from residents who helped ensure firefighters had food and refreshments during the operation.
Hutchinson specifically thanked Jeremy Hartsook for providing pizza and drinks to those involved.
In an update confirming the fire had been extinguished, Hutchinson described the effort as a long and difficult battle that demonstrated the strength of the surrounding communities.
“Today we seen the community come together, to assist us in many ways, we had a long hard battle but everyone came together and helped us get the job done!” Hutchinson wrote.
He also expressed appreciation for the neighbouring fire departments, farmers and residents who provided assistance throughout the emergency.
Hutchinson reserved special recognition for the firefighters who left their regular responsibilities to respond.
“And I would like to thank the members that were able to respond, dropping what they were doing today to protect their community! Job very well done!”
