Grass fire in Springbank extinguished after threatening nearby community

Agrass fire in Springbankthat was burning out of control early Thursday evening has now been extinguished, according to an update provided by Rocky View County at 8:30 p.m.

Earlier,Cochrane RCMP said in a statement that a fire burningnear Springbank Heights Drive and Springbank Heights Way was threatening residents in the area.

Rocky View County said the fire's location,on a forested hillside, made it difficult to contain from the ground, but air support helped prevent it from spreading.

"Fire protection remains in place for nearby homes," the county said in a statement. The county saidcrews will continue working throughout the evening to put out any hot spots.

An evacuation centre set up at Springbank Park for All Seasons at 32224A Springbank Rd. will remain open for impacted residents.

Police had warnedresidents to prepare to be evacuated due to the danger of the fire earlier on Thursday evening.

Rocky View Countysaid Wednesday night's water main break in Calgary is not impacting the area, but the county iscurrently under a fire ban.

"The ability to provide fire suppression services and access to water is critical," reads a statement. "We ask residents to follow all restrictions, including no permit burning and the suspension of any outstanding burning and fireworks permits."