MacGregor firefighters respond to water column fire – PortageOnline.com

The MacGregor Fire Department is reminding citizens to be careful near power lines following a recent water column fire.

According to the department report, the fire occurred June 16 near the MacGregor Homestead Co-op.

Fire Chief Chris Leckie said firefighters made the area safe and ensured public safety until hydro crews arrived.

He says it’s extremely important to be careful around power lines and to contact emergency services in the event of downed water lines.

“We are not 100 percent sure what happened to this piece,” he continues. “The top of the pole caught fire and we weren’t sure if it had been struck by lightning. A storm had passed through there the night before, and with the strong wind and rain, it certainly found a weak spot, and it caught fire.”

Leckie admits that due to the high winds this year, a waterline failure is not unusual, but it is important for those who witness such an event to prioritize safety so they feel cautious and vigilant.

“If anyone sees or finds a broken water line, it is very important to keep a safe distance and contact 911 or your local water company.”


No injuries were reported from this incident.