LISTOWEL – The cause of a July 6 shed fire on Line 87, north of Listowel, is unknown at this time.
North Perth Deputy Fire Chief Dennis McEwen told the Banner that the Listowel and Atwood stations were paged at 12:12 a.m. last Thursday to a shed fire at Berlett Farms.
“Two coverall sheds were on fire when crews arrived on the scene,” said McEwen.
McEwen said one coverall contained a large amount of hay and some machinery, while the other coverall contained a large amount of straw.
A tanker truck races down Line 87 toward Listowel to fill up with water, July 6. (Mike Wilson photo)
The Monkton station and Minto Fire – Palmerston were called for assistance before crews arrived on the scene. Mapleton Fire/Rescue was also called to provide tanker assistance. A total of 35 firefighters were on scene.
After nearly 17 hours, the final crew left the scene at 6:46 p.m. on July 6.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
As of Friday, the cause the fire is unknown, nor is the extent of the damage.
The department also commended the property owners for providing the 911 dispatcher with a clear address and access instructions.
“The owners provided useful information about the fire that was related to responding crews in advance of our arrival,” said the department on social media July 6. “Knowing your 911 location is critical to getting the help you need in an emergency.”
The road closed sign at the corner of Line 87 and Road 164/Highway 23 on Thursday, July 6. (Mike Wilson photo)
‘Road closed sign is not a suggestion’
Throughout the day, tanker trucks were travelling up and down Line 87, then headed into Listowel to fill trucks with water in front of the Food Basics plaza. Line 87 was closed between Road 164/Highway 23 and Road 157, with signs posted at both ends, to allow emergency crews to safely do their jobs.
However, that didn’t stop several motorists from driving down the road.
“Motorists are reminded that a road closed sign is not a suggestion,” wrote the department in a social media post Thursday night. “The road has been closed to allow emergency personnel and apparatus to work safely without on-lookers. The road will be re-opened when it’s determined it’s safe to do so. Please don’t go around barricades. You may be putting yourself and others at risk.”
The department is also reminding drivers that in Ontario, the law requires motorists to slow down and move over when they see an emergency vehicle with lights flashing approaching.
If you are unable to move over safely, you must slow down to 60 km/h.
