EDMONTON – After a long stretch of dry, warm and windy conditions, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services issued a fire ban for the city Tuesday, and St. Albert followed suit Wednesday.
Those fire bans prohibit burning activities including open burning, backyard fire pits, solid fuel cook stoves in parks and fireworks within city limits. People are also being reminded to dispose of cigarette butts responsibly.
Propane or gas barbecues are still permitted.
The ban in both cities will remain in effect until further notice.
Anyone who breaks a fire ban may be subject to fines or charges if the activity causes a safety issue. This may also include covering costs for emergency services.
As of Tuesday, the fire danger rating for Edmonton and area moved into the “extreme” category, which is calculated using the Fire Weather Index and takes into account temperature, wind conditions, humidity and fuel (ground cover) moisture levels.
More information on what is permitted during a fire ban: www.edmonton.ca/firebans.
Strathcona County has been under a similar fire ban since May 7.
The ban applies to all rural areas, hamlets and Sherwood Park.
No outdoor fires are permitted, including burning barrels and fire works, nor are recreational fire pits or charcoal barbecues allowed. Fire permits are suspended until the ban is lifted.
“Do not hesitate to phone 9-1-1 to report a fire,” says Fire Chief Darrell Reid, Strathcona County Emergency Services.
Any changes in the situation will be announced at www.strathcona.ca or on Strathcona County’s burning information line at 780-464-8464.
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