Fire bans in effect across region
Continuing hot and dry conditions are causing a number of fire bans in southern Alberta communities.
On Thursday, the province issued a notice of fire restriction prohibiting open fires on private land, as well as backcountry and non-designated camping sites in parts of southern Alberta.
The fire restriction is in effect in the Calgary Forest Area, which extends south ofHighway 32 along the mountains and foothills to the northern boundary ofWaterton Lakes National Park.
“We’ve seen hot and dry weather across much of southern Alberta recently, which has contributed to
an extreme fire hazard in that area. It’s important that we take these steps to help reduce the risk of human-caused fires,” Oneil Carlier, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry said in the statement.
All fire permits are suspended and no new fire permits will be issued. The use of fireworks and exploding targets is also prohibited.
Campfires within campgrounds in designated fire rings in this area are still permitted. Gas or propane stoves/barbecues and portable propane fire pits are also allowed.
Anyone found to be burning material during a fire restriction in Alberta could be subject to a $287 fine and responsible for the costs of fighting the fire.
Fire bans are in place for the City of Lethbridge, Lethbridge County, theMunicipal District ofWillow Creek, Vulcan County, Municipal District of Taber and County of Warner.
Fire restrictions are in place for the Calgary Forest Area, Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, Municipal District of Pincher Creek and Town of Pincher Creek, Claresholm, Coalhurst, Coaldale, County of 40 Mile, and Cypress County.
Fire advisories are also in place for Cardston County, the Town of Cardston, Village of Glenwood, Village ofHill Spring, Waterton Lakes National Park and the County of Newell.
Up-to-date information on fire restrictions and fire bans is available by calling 1-866-FYI-FIRE (1-866394-3473).
To report a wildfire in Alberta’s Forest Protection Area, call 310-FIRE (310-3473).