As of Monday afternoon (September 15), a restricted fire order is in effect for all of Red Deer County.
The County requires that:
a) All outdoor fires presently burning within Red Deer County whether set with permission or under permit of the County, will remain valid for the duration of the permit
b) The ignition of all new outdoor fires within the boundaries of Red Deer County are hereby prohibited
c) No new fire permits will be issued
This ban DOES NOT apply to:
a) Fires, which are contained within cooking and heating appliances, and which are fueled by fluids, gases, or wood pellets
b) Fires contained within industrial facilities for operational purposes
c) Safe acceptable residential fire pits* and enclosed incinerators
d) Approved Gas/Propane fueled fire pits*/stoves/ barbecues e) Catalytic or infrared-style heaters
Safe acceptable residential fire pits need to be:
• A minimum of 3 metres clearance measured from the nearest fireplace edge to the nearest edge of buildings, property lines, or other combustible material
• A height not exceeding 0.6 metres when measured from the surrounding grade to the top of the pit opening
• Equipped with a mesh screen with opening no larger than 13mm
• Enclosed sides made from bricks, concrete blocks, heavy gauge metal, or other non-combustible materials
• Not located over any underground utilities or under aboveground wires
Off-Highway Vehicles can start wildfires, so residents are to check frequently to ensure hot spots are free of debris, and make sure mufflers and spark arrestors are working properly.
Any person violating conditions of this ban may be held liable for any damages and/or costs associated with extinguishing the fire and full prosecution with penalties, in accordance with Red Deer County Fire Services Bylaw 2012/14 and/or the Forest Prairie Protection Act RSA.
For updates on current conditions, please visit the Alberta Fire Bans website.
**With information from Red Deer County
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