Grass fire west of Saskatoon caused by train

Saskatoon fire crews were called to a large grass fire just west of Saskatoon around 5:30 a.m. Saturday.

According to officials, it started when a train wheel locked up and caused sparking along the CN mainline between adjacent to the 11th Street West Extension.

Because of strong wind battling the blaze was difficult, adding to the challenge the ground was too damp in some places for the necessary equipment to get close enough.

Delisle crews were called in to assist because they have special equipment that can get through wet ground conditions better.

The Vanscoy Fire Department and CN also worked on the blaze.

Grass fire at the Cameco plant and old Mendel farm on both sides of the tracks– Fire says started by a @CNRailway train #yxe @CKOMNews pic.twitter.com/vqC3BHq4do

— JT Marshall (@jtmarshallCKOM) May 6, 2017

Crews on scene also worked to protect properties in the area near the old Mendel farm towards the Cory Potash Mine.

Due to the challenging conditions and shifting wind, a shed was destroyed and crews continue to work to stop the fire from spreading to other nearby buildings.