Saskatoon Fire - News Releases

The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) is promoting the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)’s theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign: “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The theme highlights the importance of understanding and safely using battery-powered devices.

Many electronics that are used every day – smartphones, tablets, cordless power tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, video game controllers, electric bikes and more – are powered by lithium-ion batteries. If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.

“Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient and found in countless everyday devices,” says Fire Marshal Ryan Bradley. "This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign focuses on helping people understand how to use these batteries safely and responsibly to reduce the risk of fire or injury in the home.”

Fires and injuries from Li-ion batteries are preventable. Keep in mind these safety tips when handling and using a lithium-ion battery:

• Buy only listed products.
  • When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
  • Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
• Charge devices safely.
  • Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
  • If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
  • Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch – this could cause a fire.
  • Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
• Recycle batteries responsibly.
  • Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries or any household batteries in the garbage or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
  • Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them:
    • Household batteries and electronics can be dropped off at the Material Recovery Centre, 7 days a week and at all SARCAN depot locations. Automotive batteries are accepted only at the Material Recovery Centre.
    • E-bike batteries are not accepted at the Material Recovery Centre. Visit recycleyourbatteries.ca to find a drop-off location in Saskatoon.
    • For more information, visit saskatoon.ca/wastewizard.

To learn more about lithium-ion battery safety, visit saskatoon.ca/batteries.

For general information about Fire Prevention Week and other fire prevention resources, visit fpw.org.

As an all-hazards response agency, the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) is committed to evolving alongside the risks that increasingly affect the community. One pressing challenge facing municipalities across Canada is the growing threat of wildland urban interface (WUI) fires—where natural landscapes meet developed urban areas.

With urban expansion encroaching into formerly rural or forested regions, the boundary between city and countryside is becoming less defined. This shift significantly increases the risk of wildfires impacting homes, infrastructure and lives. 

In response to this emerging risk, SFD is proud to partner with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) to host the Responding to the Interface (RTI) training program from September 22 to 25, 2025. This comprehensive course equips firefighters with the knowledge and skills required to safely and effectively respond to WUI incidents, focusing on operational response, command, strategy, and tactics.

The RTI program includes:

• Ten one-hour online modules
• One day of classroom instruction
• One day of hands-on field training

The course will be delivered by experienced IAFF instructors from across Canada and the United States. Firefighters from the Prince Albert Fire Department will also participate. Upon completion, successful candidates will be certified to instruct the RTI course themselves— creating a lasting network of trained local instructors who can deliver future training to all SFD firefighters.

“This training not only enhances our operational readiness but also strengthens long-term regional capacity by equipping our own instructors to deliver high-quality, consistent training within our fire service,” says Acting Assistant Fire Chief Travis Brehaut. “We’re fortunate to offer this training locally and we’re pleased to welcome our colleagues from Prince Albert to join us in this valuable learning opportunity.”

Building on the early success of the RTI pilot project and the strategic partnership between the IAFF and the Government of Canada, this specialized training is available at no cost to municipal fire departments across the country.

This initiative reflects SFD’s dedication to proactive preparedness and community safety in the face of evolving environmental conditions.

The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) is recognizing the National Fire Protection Association’s annual Fire Prevention Week, taking place on October 5-11, 2025. This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” highlights the importance of understanding and safely using battery-powered devices.

To raise awareness and engage the community, SFD is hosting three Open House events in the weeks leading up to Fire Prevention Week. These family-friendly events offer a behind-the-scenes look at fire services and provide valuable fire safety education.

Residents are encouraged to visit SFD on the following days:

Wednesday, September 17 
Fire Station No. 8 
207 Slimmon Road 
6:00-8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 1 
Fire Station No. 1 
125 Idylwyld Drive South 
6:00-8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 8 - Hosted in partnership with Pro-Tec Fire Services at the Saskatoon Airport  
Saskatoon Airport Fire Department 
2525 Airport Road 
6:00-8:00 p.m.

Each open house will include fire engine tours, presentations by the Fire Prevention team, delicious treats, fire swag and the opportunity to meet SFD members from across the department.

“These events are a great way for residents of all ages to connect with our fire service and learn how to stay safe — especially when it comes to the growing use of lithium-ion batteries in our homes,” says Fire Marshal Ryan Bradley.

Everyone is welcome. Come learn, explore and help spark a safer community!

As a tribute to the firefighters who risk their lives to keep Canadians safe, the second Sunday in September of each year is formally designated in memory of firefighters who have fallen in the line of duty. This year, Firefighters’ National Memorial Day will take place on Sunday, September 14.

“On Firefighters' National Memorial Day, we pause to honour the courage, sacrifice and unwavering dedication of those who have served and those we have lost,” says Fire Chief Doug Wegren. “With deep gratitude and pride, we remember their selfless service and give thanks for their enduring commitment to protecting our community.”

The Saskatoon Fire Department will observe a moment of silence at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 14. Firefighters will be at attention on the ramps of their stations and flags at half-mast in honour of Firefighters’ National Memorial Day.

At 8:21 a.m., the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) received a call about a vehicle in the South Saskatchewan River near Broadway Bridge. The SFD water rescue team was dispatched to the scene.

Upon arrival, the water rescue team located the vehicle and checked for occupants. The water rescue team confirmed the vehicle was empty.

The SFD assisted in securing the vehicle to a tow truck, which successfully removed the vehicle from the river at 10:30 a.m.

The scene was turned over to the Saskatoon Police Service for further investigation.

The fire investigation has concluded.  

Fire originated on a balcony and the cause of the fire was improper disposal of smoking material.

Saskatoon Fire Department wants to remind everyone to use an appropriate receptacle to discard cigarette butts such as a sealed jar with water inside.  Ashtrays, plastic containers and metal cans are known to catch fire, melt or allow butts to be blown out and start combustible material on fire.

At 3:31 a.m. on August 19, 2025, the Saskatoon Fire Department Communications Center received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a fire in an apartment building in the 400 block of Fairmont Drive.  Three fire engines, one rescue unit, one ladder truck and the Battalion Chief were dispatched.  First arriving fire crews were on scene at 3:36 a.m. and reported flames showing from the second floor of a three storey apartment complex.  Incoming fire crews were assigned their tactical duties upon their arrival.  An additional fire engine was requested to support fire suppression at 3:38 a.m. as the fire was moving towards the roof and attic space.  Utilities were shut down for safety on the fire scene.  

The fire was brought under control at 4:24 a.m.

A Fire Investigator was requested to attend.  

Complete extinguishment was declared at 4:39 a.m.  Fire crews began being released from the fire scene and returning to their respective stations.  The fire scene was turned over to the Fire Investigator at 6:22 a.m.

No injuries to firefighters or civilians occurred as a result of this fire.  Two suites sustained fire damage and 4 people were relocated and rehoused by the property owner.  The fire alarm system is being serviced and some smoke alarms replaced.  All other occupants will be able to return to their suites.  

The fire caused approximately $200,000 damage.  A fire investigation is currently underway.  Further information will be released once available.

The Fire Investigator has concluded the scene examination where a fatality occurred in the 600 block of Avenue N South.  Fire originated at the bottom of the stairs in the basement.  Cause of the fire is undetermined.  Damaged is approximated at $125, 000.  The structure has been closed by the Saskatoon Fire Department due to the amount of fire and water damage.

It is unknown why the occupant was unable to evacuate at the time of the fire.

At 9:13 a.m. on June 28, 2025, the Saskatoon Fire Department Communications Center received a report of a possible fire in the 600 block of Avenue N South.  Three fire engines, one rescue unit, one ladder truck and the Battalion Chief were dispatched.  Fire crews arrive at 9:16 a.m. and reported smoke from the roof and visible inside a structure.  At 9:28 a.m., fire crews located a person inside the structure and removed the patient.  The fire was brought under control at 9:43 a.m.  

A fire investigator was requested and attended the scene.  

The lone occupant removed by firefighters has passed away.

Our Fire Investigator will work conduct a fire investigation when practical and will work with the Saskatoon Police Service.  No other details are available at this time.  The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation.  

The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) has taken a major step toward modernizing emergency communications with the successful launch of the Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911) system. The transformative upgrade will significantly enhance emergency response capabilities, contributing to faster, more accurate and more reliable service for residents across Saskatoon.

NG911 is a nationwide initiative that replaces traditional 911 infrastructure with a modern, IP-based system. While residents will continue to dial 911 for emergencies, the new system will offer a range of improvements:

• Enhanced Location Accuracy: Emergency dispatchers will receive more precise caller location data, improving response times and coordination.
• Faster Call Routing: Calls will be connected more quickly to the appropriate emergency responders.
• Greater System Resilience: A more robust and secure network will provide continuity of service, even during high-demand or emergency situations.
• Improved Backup Systems: Enhanced fail-safes will ensure uninterrupted service in the event of technical issues.
• Future-Ready Communication: In future phases, residents will be able to send text messages, photos, and videos directly to 911, providing critical real-time information to first responders.

“This technology upgrade speaks to our department’s commitment to our community’s safety,” says Deputy Chief, Rob Hogan. “In an emergency, every second matters. The new NG911 system equips our team with faster, more accurate information—helping us respond more quickly, make better decisions on the ground and ultimately deliver a higher level of service to the residents of Saskatoon.”

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has federally mandated that all 9-1-1 services in Canada transition to the NG9-1-1 network by 2027. SFD is the 20th Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) in Canada—out of more than 200—to complete the transition.

At 7:30 a.m., the Saskatoon Fire Department received a report of a house on fire in the 400 Block of Nesbitt Way.  Three fire engines, one ladder truck, one rescue unit and the Battalion Chief were dispatched.  The first arriving fire crew reported the front of a house fully involved in fire.  All incoming fire crews were assigned their tactical duties.  At 7:38 a.m., the officer in charge of the fire scene called for more apparatus as a neighboring house and vehicles on the driveway were also on fire.  An additional fire engine, one ladder truck and the Fire Investigator on duty were dispatched.  Utilities at the scene were shut down for scene safety.  

The fire was brought under control at 8:19 a.m.  Fire crews have begun to be released from the fire scene to return to their stations and put equipment and apparatus back into commission.  Some fire crews remain on scene to monitor conditions and perform other duties.

Four occupants who were home at the time of the fire, evacuated safely.

Once the fire scene is turned over to the Fire Investigator, a cause and origin scene examination will begin.  

Further details will be provided when practical.

Please avoid the area to allow fire crews to work safely.

Update:  Fire Investigator has conducted a scene examination for cause and origin determination. 

Cause of the fire:  Undetermined due to extent of fire damage

Origin of fire:  Between 135 and 139 Boykowich Bend as fire involved both properties, fire extended into both interiors from the exterior.  Fire originated around waste disposal bins.  135 Boykowich had the most fire damage.

Damage:  It is approximated that 135 received $500,000 damage due to fire from exterior and 139 receiving $100,00 from fire damage.  

All occupants evacuated safely and were re-housed.  

The structure fire in the 800 block of 56th Street East is fully extinguished and fire crews have left the scene.

Although the initial report indicated a fire on the roof of the structure, the exact area of origin remains undetermined. The building is a total loss and a portion of it was brought down to aid in extinguishing the fire. Fencing now surrounds the fire debris and the fire was contained to the single structure.

A fire investigator will begin an examination of the scene on May 9th to explore the cause of the fire and determine a damage estimate.

Further updates will be provided as they become available.