Calgary Fire Department Responds to Three Significant Fires During Busy Sunday Afternoon

Calgary Fire Department (CFD) crews responded to three significant fires across the city during the afternoon on Sunday August 2, which challenged the department’s ability to manage multiple complex emergencies while maintaining emergency response coverage for Calgary residents. 

At approximately 12:20 p.m., a structure fire was reported in the 400 block of MacLeod Trail SE. Responding crews encountered a substantial fire with multiple occupants requiring immediate rescue. Firefighters promptly initiated rescue operations and executed an aggressive interior attack. A second alarm was requested to provide additional resources. Several individuals were safely extricated, and the fire was contained to the room of origin, although smoke damage affected the remainder of the structure. Numerous patients were assessed on scene, with six transported to hospital by Alberta Emergency Health Services. Given the extent of the damage and approximately fifty displaced residents, the Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) attended and provided on-site support. 

While operations were ongoing at the initial incident, CFD was dispatched to a second major fire at approximately 1:54 p.m. in the 100 block of 16 Street NW. Upon arrival, firefighters found two detached garages fully involved. Crews established command, deployed multiple hose lines, and successfully contained the fire to the affected garages, thereby preventing extension to adjacent properties. No injuries were reported in this incident. 

At approximately 3:00 p.m., CFD responded to a third major incident at the Shepard Landfill. Due to the magnitude and complexity of the situation, CFD personnel collaborated with landfill staff, employing specialized tactics and heavy equipment to contain the fire. Operations continued into the evening to achieve full mitigation and minimize the incident’s impact.

Despite responding to three major fires over the course of less than three hours, the Calgary Fire Department maintained emergency response capabilities across the city through coordinated resource deployment and support from crews at multiple stations. 

The causes of all three fires remain under investigation by the Calgary Fire Department Fire Investigation Team. Damage estimates are not available at this time. 

The Calgary Fire Department extends its appreciation to the Calgary Police Service, Alberta Emergency Health Services, the Calgary Emergency Management Agency, City of Calgary partners, and landfill personnel for their collaboration and support during these incidents. 

Early detection played a critical role in protecting lives and property during today’s events. The Calgary Fire Department reminds all residents to ensure smoke alarms are installed on every level of their home, outside all sleeping areas, and are tested monthly to ensure they are functioning properly. 

With current hot, dry, and windy conditions increasing the risk of fire across southern Alberta, residents are also encouraged to use extra caution with any outdoor activities that could create a fire and to report fires immediately by calling 9-1-1. 

Anyone with photos, video, or information especially prior to the arrival of fire crews is encouraged to email piofire@calgary.ca