Safety is always key for the Portage la Prairie Fire Department when dealing with any fire.

Captain Dave Sproat says they recently responded to a propane tank fire and says there have been some concerns raised.

"Some of the concern was raised about our protection during fighting these fires, and we just evaluate the situation as we arrive on scene. What we see will tell us what we can do, and at any time if we feel it's not safe to approach it we will create a surrounding area which is safe and let the fire burn itself out."

He says public safety is their top concern.

"Our first concern is public safety, so we will keep people away from the scene. If need be we will sit back and let it burn off, only in extreme situations will we engage in active firefighting and apply water. We also have the ability to apply water from a very far distance safely so we can cool the tank."

He adds they always evaluate the situation when they arrive on scene, and what they see will determine what they'll do.