Stock image of a Lloydminster Fire and Rescue vehicle. Dan Gray - The Border Pulse
The City of Lloydminster says Lloydminster Fire Rescue, Lloydminster RCMP and airport staff helped respond to Saturday’s fire at CFB Wainwright.
The City made the statement in a news release Monday. It does not say how many people took part, what equipment was used or what the airport’s role was.
Personnel from Lloydminster Airport “provided support during the emergency response,” the release said.
Wainwright’s fire chief also thanked Lloydminster Fire Rescue. Aime Smyl, director of protective services and fire chief for the Town of Wainwright, posted a statement Monday on the Municipal District of Wainwright No. 61’s Facebook page.
Smyl thanked fire departments from the villages of Irma, Chauvin and Edgerton and the Town of Vermilion. The statement also thanked National Defence Fire Services Wainwright, Lloydminster Fire Rescue, Alberta Wildfire, East Central 9-1-1, the RCMP and health-care providers.
“I am also humbled by the number of departments that reached out to help,” Smyl wrote.
Smyl said the fire is contained within the municipal district’s boundary and is not expected to pass the fire guard. The statement said lingering smoke may continue in the days ahead.
“At this time, our priority is maintaining our ability to provide emergency response services to the Town and M.D. As such, I will not be available for interviews, as my full attention is on supporting the community,” Smyl wrote.
The statement does not say how many Lloydminster firefighters took part or what equipment they brought.
BorderPulse reported Saturday that responders from Lloydminster were responding to the scene.
BorderPulse also reported Sunday that a Canadian Armed Forces CC-130H Hercules was seen at Lloydminster Airport at about midnight. The City’s release does not mention the aircraft.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers said in the release:
“Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones, those who are injured, and everyone whose lives have been affected by this tragedy.
“We know this is an incredibly difficult time for the Town of Wainwright, the Canadian Armed Forces, and the many families and communities connected to those involved. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. We are also deeply grateful to the first responders, health-care workers, military personnel, and everyone who has worked tirelessly to help those in need.”
The City said it extends its continued thoughts and support to the Town of Wainwright, the Canadian Armed Forces and everyone affected.
BorderPulse has asked the City how many Lloydminster Fire Rescue members went to Wainwright, what resources they used and how the airport was used. This story will be updated with the City’s response.
Read more: Military names four soldiers killed in CFB Wainwright fire
