Firefighters from three departments responded to an early morning grass fire north of the County of Vermilion River Public Works yard on Highway 897 on Aug. 2.

Kitscoty Fire Department was first dispatched to the reported outside fire. Upon arrival, crews found the fire spreading toward nearby structures. Due to windy conditions, mutual aid was requested from Blackfoot Fire and Rescue and Marwayne Fire and Rescue.

Despite recent moisture and wet grass, strong winds allowed the fire to spread rapidly. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze by attacking its flanks while the head of the fire reached the edge of a nearby slough, helping stop its forward progress.

Once the fire was contained, crews remained on scene to extinguish hot spots and check for any fire extension.

By 7:44 a.m., Kitscoty Fire advised that crews were returning to their stations.

County of Vermilion River Protective Services is reminding residents to exercise extra caution due to the day’s wind warning, as windy conditions can quickly increase the risk of wildfire spread.