EDMONTON – Strathcona County and the City of Fort Saskatchewan both issued a full fire ban starting at noon Tuesday.
The bans are a result of weather being extremely dry and windy for days and a number of wildfires being reported east of Edmonton.
READ MORE: Wildfire triggers evacuation of portions of Lamont County
The ban means no outdoor fires are allowed, including fireworks, fire pits and charcoal barbecues. Propane appliances, such as barbecues, are permitted.
In Strathcona County, a failure to comply with the ban could result in a $1,000 fine as well as charges for the cost of a response.
READ MORE: Fire crews battle large grass fire east of Sherwood Park
Changes to the situation in Strathcona County will be made on the county’s website, and on its burning information line at 780-464-8464.
Updates on the situation in Fort Saskatchewan are being posted on the city’s website.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the City of Edmonton said it was monitoring the situation but not considering a fire ban at this point. Officials asked people to be cautious when using fire pits and closely follow all regulations when it comes to having an open fire.
On Monday, Strathcona County RCMP and Strathcona County Emergency Services (SCES) were alerted to a large grass fire threatening homes at the Wye Haven and Aspen View subdivisions near Highway 630 and Range Road 213. It was deemed under control later Monday, but fire crews stayed on scene overnight to watch for flare ups.
As of Tuesday at 10 a.m., there were 37 wildfires in Alberta, with five being listed as out of control.
Visit the government of Alberta’s website for the very latest information on the wildfire status across Alberta and the current fire ban situation.
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