Bale fires draw questions

Times Contributor 

 

County road crews were asked to respond to recent bale fires in the county, and Public Works Manager Gerry Van Oostwaard questioned whether the potential dangers for crews and equipment in these situations needed to be reviewed.

“It is extremely dangerous for the men and the equipment,” said Van Oostwaard. “When the crews have asked us to help out, we have done that. I am not advocating that we refuse it, but it is very dangerous for the men and dangerous for the equipment.”

He was concerned that the men had no training in the situation, and also wheather the county had any coverage under these circumstances.

In discussion, County councillors recommended that protocols for response in those situations be in place. The crews are covered under the Workers Compensation Board, if any injury should occur. It was indicated the protocols should state the manager’s authorization to deny the request if he felt there was a safety issue. Councillors suggested that the County Fire and Safety Manager could arrange training for the crewmembers. Staff was asked to forward the issue to the legal and insurance advisors for their input on the situation and report to council.

Dry conditions prompted fire wardens to issue a ban on Sept. 21. The ban was lifted as of Oct. 4. Gas or propane BBQ’s were not included in the ban. The fire wardens post signs in their designated areas and the notice is on the Wheatland County website. www.wheatlandcounty.ca.