ATHABASCA – Residents in the northern part of Athabasca County will be under a fire ban after a province wide heat wave increased the risk of forest fires.
According to a July 10 release, 137 new wildfires have started since July 1 amidst hot and dry conditions across the entire province. As a result, the government has issued a fire ban across all Forest Protection Areas, including Lac La Biche and Fort McMurray.
Under the ban, fire permits issued by Alberta’s government are now suspended or cancelled, and no new permits will be issued while the ban remains in place.
Outdoor wood fires, including in backyard fire pits, are prohibited, as are fireworks, exploding targets, and charcoal briquette barbeques.
“Alberta has been experiencing difficult conditions in recent days and the risk of new wildfire starts is extremely high throughout the province,” said Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks. “Now more than ever, Albertans must work together to protect our communities and forests by remaining vigilant, spending time outdoors responsibly, and avoiding activities that can cause a wildfire.”
Albertans may still use propane and natural gas fuelled appliances. Indoor wood fires inside structures such as buildings, tents or RVs that are contained within a device with a chimney and spark arrestor are also allowed.
