Ahead of Canada Day, the Manitoba Government is urging residents to celebrate with fire prevention in mind.
In its most recent wildfire update, the provincial Wildfire Service says there is an elevated fire danger in the southern half of Manitoba, as well as the northeastern corner.
It notes that, while most provincial parks have reopened in time to enjoy Canada Day outdoors, there are still a number of closures that are still in place. That includes parts of Nopiming Provincial Park, which is still being ravaged by an out-of-control wildfire, now burning at 226,160 hectares.
In total, the province says its crews are responding to 17 active wildfires, and has addressed 132 to date.
More than 909,000 hectares have burned, it says.
While fire and travel restrictions have been lifted for most of the province, the government says travel permits are still required for areas with an active fire boundary.
Permits are also required for fireworks, it reminds—particularly pertinent this time of year.
"Fireworks are prohibited in provincial parks and a permit is needed to set off fireworks within the burn permit area. For areas outside the burn permit area, contact municipalities directly for permit requirements," the province says.
Since May 1, the government says its conservation officer service has issued 96 charges and 32 warnings related to wildfires.