As Lacombe County transitions into spring, extremely windy conditions are causing winter burn pits to flare up, posing a real risk to properties, natural areas, and community safety.
The County is asking landowners who burned piles of debris during the winter months and early spring to check those piles today. While those fires may have appeared extinguished, deep ground fires can smoulder unseen for weeks or even months. The combination of warmer temperatures, dry conditions, and strong spring winds creates the perfect environment for these hidden embers to reignite, which have kept our fire crews on high alert over the past few days.
Why it matters:
- These flare-ups can spark fast-moving grass or wildfires.
- Wind fans the flames and spreads fire unpredictably.
- A quick check now can prevent a costly and dangerous situation.
What You Can Do
- Inspect old burn sites now—especially if you burned this past winter.
- Use a metal rod to probe deep into the pile. If it’s warm, it’s not out.
- Soak any hot spots thoroughly with water and spread the ash to cool it down.
- If your burn wasn’t complete, re-pile and re-burn under safe conditions.
- Never assume it's out just because you don't see smoke.
All residents and landowners are asked to be vigilant. Even a small spark in these conditions can lead to major consequences.
**With information from Lacombe County.
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