LEA PARK — A massive column of black smoke visible from as far away as Kitscoty sparked a multi-department response to a large outdoor fire in the Lea Park area.

Emergency crews were dispatched at approximately 3:15 p.m. after reports came in of a significant fire involving vehicles, with nearby structures also threatened.

Marwayne Fire, Dewberry Fire & Rescue, Islay Fire and Kitscoty Fire Department were called to the scene.

When the first crews arrived, they found a semi-truck carrying bales on fire. The flames had spread beyond the vehicle and were moving toward a large storage shed, prompting firefighters to immediately begin protecting nearby structures while attacking the active fire.

Crews weren’t alone in the fight.

Members of the OB Colony – Marwayne Alberta, County of Vermilion River grader operators, local farmers and neighbours joined the effort as firefighters worked to contain the blaze.

With the fire occurring in a rural area, firefighters established a water shuttle to keep crews supplied. Multiple hose lines were deployed as responders worked in several locations at once, extinguishing active fire and protecting surrounding exposures.

The response stretched well into the evening.

By approximately 9:30 p.m., firefighters had the situation under control and the scene was turned back over to the property owner. Fire apparatus then began returning to their respective halls.

EC911 dispatchers coordinated radio traffic throughout the response, while Medavie Health Services West – Northeast Alberta provided medical standby.

Photo Credit: County of Vermilion Fire Rescue

Photo Credit: County of Vermilion Fire Rescue

Kitscoty RCMP also assisted at the scene.

The Wheatfield Inn provided food for first responders during the lengthy operation.

No injuries were reported in the information released about the fire.

The cause of the fire was not provided.