The Nelson Fire Department received several 911 calls on Tuesday night (April 29) as a grass fire was reported on the undeveloped property at the east end of Sproat Drive.
At about 10:30 p.m., callers reported hearing noises, similar to firecrackers, shortly before they noticed the blaze.
The on-duty fire crew responded immediately, with a fire truck and a utility vehicle. One off-duty member was called in from home.
Upon arrival, Captain Jeff Hebert surveyed the area and found roughly six meters by nine meters of grass and weed- covered land aflame.
Fire fighters immediately began battling the blaze, dousing the area with 700 litres of foam-enhanced water.
Within 20 minutes, the fire was completely extinguished.
By 11:35 p.m. all fire apparatus were back in the station.
Nelson City Police were also on scene and looked for signs of foul play. A subsequent fire investigation was unable to determine the cause of the fire. Nevertheless, citizens are reminded of the hazards of firecrackers (which are illegal in Nelson) or carelessly discarded smoking materials, especially as the dry and hot part of the year begins.