The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) remains on scene at the landfill fire in southeast Calgary

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) remains on scene at the landfill fire in southeast Calgary. Crews kept the fire contained overnight, and established firebreaks and ongoing suppression efforts are helping reduce fire activity. 

We understand Calgarians have questions about how long it is taking to extinguish the fire. Landfill fires are particularly complex and can require prolonged operational timelines due to the volume and variety of materials involved and because fire can burn deep within debris piles. Heavy equipment is needed to uncover burning material so crews can apply water before covering it with clean soil or gravel to cool the material and smother the fire.

Contractors are bringing in large volumes of dirt which heavy equipment operators will use in conjunction with firefighting crews to cover and smother impacted areas of the site. This process has proved to be effective, and efforts are underway to speed up this process. This support will continue until the fire is fully extinguished. 

Protecting the health of Calgarians remains a priority. Please contact Health Link at 811 to speak with a registered nurse if you have questions or concerns related to smoke exposure or air quality. In a medical emergency, including severe difficulty breathing, call 9-1-1 or seek immediate medical attention. 

We appreciate Calgarians’ patience as crews manage this complex incident.

Courtesy: The City of Calgary Newsroom