Fire on farm east of Calgary threatens homes, sends black smoke high above city

Firefighters from multiple rural detachments have brought a blaze east of Calgary under control.

The fire began as a small grass fire on a farm east of the city, but grew to envelope at least one building andthreaten nearby homes.

Accordingto Rocky View County, two homes were saved, butfour outbuildings and somefarm equipment were destroyed by the fire.

"The fire is now under control, and fire crews will remain on scene for another few hours dealing with hot spots," said spokespersonAmanda Bradley.

"At this time, the cause is unknown."

Thefire wason Range Road 281 between Township Road 252and Highway 564 nearBalzac, according to RCMP.

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Bradleysaid fire crews from Irricana, Langdon, Balzac, Springbank, Beiseker, Crossfieldand Chestermereall responded to the scene,in an effort protect nearby homes.

Garth Rabel with theAirdrieFire Department said one truck with two firefighters from the department was also sent to assist in battling the blaze.

Thick, black smoke from the blazewas easilyvisible from northeast Calgary and several people in the vicinityposted imagesonline:

Range Road 281between Township 252 and Highway 564 has reopened.