State of emergency as fire burns southwest of Biggar

The Government of Saskatchewan has issued warnings to people living in Biggar and Division 2 of the surrounding rural municipality due to a wildfire that’s been burning in the area since Monday.

Shorlty before 11:30 p.m., the province advised people living in Biggar and in the R.M. of Biggar south of Highway 51 and west of Highway 4 including Duperow to be prepared to leave immediately should they be required to evacuate.

Those with health conditions that could be aggravated by heavy smoke in the area were advised to be prepared to evacuate to a reception area set up at the recreation complex located in the village of Purdue at 1124 10th Street.

As of just after 2:15 a.m. Tuesday, the province was advising that smoke and poor air quality had prompted both town authorities and officials in the R.M. of Biggar #347 to declare states of emergency.

A shelter in place was available as of 2 a.m. at the Biggar Community Hall where people with respiratory issues could get clean air.

Anyone needing additional help was advised to contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-888-953-3463 to see what aid could be made available.

At 6 a.m. Tuesday, the province reported the fire was still burning and that states of emergency remained in effect in the R.M. and the town of Biggar due to poor air quality.

Drivers were being asked to avoid Highway 51, Triumph Road and surrounding areas to allow emergency services room to work.

People were being told to be ready to leave the area if instructed and to continue to monitor SaskAlert for updates.

Patients evacuated from Biggar Hospital

Tuesday morning saw patients evacuated from the Biggar hospital due to poor air quality and smoke from the fire.

Fifty-three long term care residents were moved to Rosetown health centre.

Another eight patients were sent to City Hospital in Saskatoon.