Grass fire smoke reducing visibility in Melville area: RCMP

Smoke from a grass fire in the Melville area is reducing visibility significantly on nearby roads and highways.

According to the RCMP, firefighters and police are responding to the fire on Westview Road, about a kilometre west of Melville, near the junction of highways 10 and 47.

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“Officers on scene report that visibility is reduced, with zero visibility in some areas,” the Saskatchewan RCMP said in a statement issued just before noon on Wednesday.

“If you are driving in the area, please slow down and follow the instructions of emergency personnel on scene. Motorists should expect delays.”

The latest information on road conditions can be found on the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline, and the RCMP reminded residents that 911 isn’t the right number to call if they want updates on roads.

“Saskatchewan RCMP remind the public to avoid calling 911 or local RCMP detachments for updates on road conditions,” the RCMP said.

“Calling 911 must be reserved for emergencies and crimes in progress and using it in non-emergent situations could prevent someone with a life-threatening emergency from getting help.”

Melville is located about 145 kilometres northeast of Regina.