Open fire ban lifted in northern Saskatchewan

REGINA – An open fire ban for northern Saskatchewan has been lifted. The ban for much of the area was put into place on May 22 due to dry conditions and the extreme risk of wildfires.

Government officials say the recent cooler weather along with recent rainfall has reduced the hazard.

As of Tuesday, there were 10 wildfires burning in northern Saskatchewan. So far this year, there have been 274 fires compared with 142 at the same time last year.

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The lifting of the fire ban is effective immediately for all provincial forests, including parks and recreation sites within the forests.

All burn notifications numbers issued to those planning to burn within the former ban area are once again in effect.

Fireworks are also permitted.

Officials say although the provincial fire ban has been lifted, local communities and rural municipalities may still have open fire bans and people should check first to see if a ban is still in place.

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They also say to check wind and weather conditions before starting a fire, don’t leave it unattended and make sure it is completely out before you leave it.