Open fires, fireworks banned in city

Measure, which stops short of a full fire ban, follows high ranking in risk index

Dry conditions have prompted a restriction from Edmonton Fire Rescue Services prohibiting open burning and fireworks in the city.

The decision was based on the fire weather index (FWI) as well as the “progressive green-up of vegetation” which has yet to occur, said a City of Edmonton news release issued late Friday.

The fire weather index indicates overall fire danger and looks at weather data such as temperature, humidity, wind speeds and precipitation. On Friday, the FWI for Edmonton was classified as high.

“Backyard fire pits and recreational cook stoves in parks are allowed, provided they are used with caution. Backyard fire pits must meet all the requirements of the firepit bylaw,” fire rescue services says in a news release.

Compliance will be emphasized over enforcement; however, anyone who doesn't comply may face fines or charges if there is a safety issue.

“If this spring continues to provide warm and dry conditions, resulting in extreme FWI values, a fire ban may be implemented,” the release says. “A fire ban would prohibit the use of backyard fire pits, cooking stoves in parks, and barbecues using solid fuels such as wood and briquettes.”

The restriction is in effect until further notice, and EFRS will continue to monitor the fire weather index.

Parkland County imposed a fire ban on Thursday while Leduc, Lamont and Westlock counties also issued fire restrictions.

Under a fire ban, no outdoor fires are permitted, including screened fire pits, burn barrels and incinerators, recreational fire pits, and charcoal-briquette barbecues.

Gas and propane appliances such as barbecues, stoves and fire pits are still allowed.

All fire permits are suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits are issued during the fire ban.

According to Leduc County, a fire restriction was issued because of the dry conditions and to minimize firefighters' risk of exposure to COVID -19.

Red Deer County, Lacombe County, the County of Stettler, County of Two Hills and County of Vermilion River have also issued fire restrictions.

Additional advisories have been issued for Athabasca County, Beaver County, Camrose County, the Edson Forest Area, Jasper National Park, Lac Ste. Anne County, Ponoka County, and the Rocky Mountain Forest Area.

Under an advisory, fire and fireworks permits are suspended.