Heading into the long weekend, fire restrictions and bans are now in place in some parts of Central Alberta as the heat warning continues.
A city-wide fire ban has been issued in Red Deer due to dry conditions and high temperatures.
The ban is effective immediately and suspends all existing fire permits.
Prohibited activities include:
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Fires using charcoal, briquettes or wood.
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Any open flame, including outdoor fires, torches, displays, and open burns.
Permitted activities include:
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CSA-approved or ULC-certified natural gas, propane or electric barbecues or smokers designed for cooking.
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Gas fire pits and electric heaters, provided they are used as directed and meet clearance requirements.
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Pellet grills and smokers with an on/off switch that controls the fuel source.
Red Deer Emergency Services is urging residents to take extra precautions to prevent fires, noting that many fires are caused by carelessly discarded smoking materials.
Anyone who violates the fire ban could face a $210 fine and additional response fees.
The ban will remain in effect until conditions improve, and the city provides further notice.
The County of Stettler has upgraded its fire advisory to a restriction due to extended hot, dry weather and no rain in the forecast.
Under the restriction:
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No new fire permits will be issued.
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Burning barrels are allowed if built from non-combustible material and fitted with a tight-fitting metal mesh screen with openings no larger than 13 millimetres.
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Backyard fire pits and wood campfires are permitted if contained by non-combustible material and covered with a metal mesh screen with openings no larger than 13 millimetres.
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Portable propane fire pits, gas or propane stoves, and barbecues remain permitted.
Officials remind residents that off-highway vehicles and farm equipment can spark wildfires — so equipment should be checked regularly to ensure mufflers, spark arrestors, and hot spots are clear of debris.
The fire restriction does not apply to propane, gas or pellet appliances, or to industrial facilities where fires are part of operations.
The restriction will remain in place until further notice, with conditions being monitored.
The Town of Innisfail is also under a fire restriction, while Lacombe County has not issued any advisories at this time.
Residents can stay updated through the Alberta Fire Bans website.
** With information from The County of Stettler and City of Red Deer.
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