Public Hazard - Technical Rescue Team Deployed - 200 block of 4th Avenue South
At approximately 7:56 p.m. on May 24, 2020, the Saskatoon Fire Department received a direct phone call alerting to a potential public hazard in the 200 block of 4th Avenue South; the building operator of a large commercial structure reported a backlit sign that had become unfastened from the building and was hanging dangerously over the sidewalk below. One aerial ladder truck was initially dispatched to investigate the concern.
Upon arrival, the commanding fire officer confirmed a large metal sign to be unsecured from the building and identified the need for additional resources; one rescue unit, staffed with a technical rescue team, was deployed to the scene. A battalion chief also responded to oversee operations.
Once briefed, the technical rescue team established a plan of action involving anchor points on the roof of the 10-story building; rope rescue technicians repelled down the side of the building, successfully removing one piece and securing a second piece of the sign at approximately 9:44 p.m. The Saskatoon Police Service restricted vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the 200 block of 4th Avenue South for the duration of this incident.
Fire crews have since cleared the scene, returning to their stations to continue serving Saskatoon.