Combine catches fire in RM of Torch River field

Oct 16, 2019

RM OF TORCH RIVER — A farming combine became completely engulfed in flames at the RM of Torch River.

“The farmer was combining canola in the field,” said Brian Starkell, Nipawin’s fire chief. “He was just finished emptying out the hopper at the end of the field. So he was raising his table up and was ready to turn when he noticed the fire was on the combine.”

Starkell said the farmer proceeded to stop the vehicle, get a fire extinguisher and call emergency services.

“At that time it was too hot to tackle with an extinguisher.”

Nipawin Fire responded to the call on Oct. 13 at about 1:21 p.m.

“Once the fire department was on scene we attacked the fire with foam from the trucks and was able to contain it to the combine and a small area the stubble was burning.”

Starkell said there was a light breeze blowing in their favour, away from the standing crop.

“It was a blessing for us, it sureassisted our help there.”

Once the main fire was extinguished, the department focused on several hotspots through the combine to ensure the fire would remain out.

There were no injuries as a result of the fire.

While the combine was destroyed, the crops were saved.

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