Photo Credit: County of Vermilion River Protective Services

A large brush and grass fire southwest of Marwayne triggered a major multi-department response Friday afternoon after strong winds pushed flames through trees, grass and nearby outbuildings.

The fire was first reported just after 3 p.m., producing heavy smoke, ash and embers visible across the area.

Marwayne Fire responded initially and crews arriving on scene found a rapidly growing fire involving brush, field grass and structures. Additional support was quickly requested from County #9-6, Kitscoty Fire Department and Islay Fire Department as crews worked to contain the spread.

Firefighters focused on establishing a defensive perimeter, protecting nearby structures and attacking the main body of the fire while gusting winds complicated suppression efforts.

ATCO, County of Vermilion River Gas and Public Works and the Kitscoty RCMP Detachment also attended the scene. Blackfoot Fire and Rescue was later called in for additional tanker support as crews continued searching for spot fires and hotspots during overhaul operations.

Around 5 p.m., Marwayne Captain Andrew Wood, serving as Incident Commander, declared stop loss. All responding crews had returned to quarters by approximately 8 p.m.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation but officials say it is not considered suspicious.

Officials also thanked local farmers who responded with water trucks and heavy equipment to assist neighbouring residents, along with EC911 dispatchers for coordinating the emergency response behind the scenes.