You may want to take extra precautions before having that long weekend campfire.
Currently, a fire restriction is in place for Strathcona County. The notice was issued on Wednesday (Aug. 31).
“Lack of precipitation and hot weather has led to dry conditions. Fires are still allowed in Strathcona County. Please use caution when burning,” read a statement from the county.
Under a fire restriction, new fire permits will not be issued, and existing permits, including for burn barrels and fireworks, are suspended. Safe cooking and warming fires are allowed in fire rings at this time.
In neighbouring Lamont County, officials issued a fire ban on Thursday, adding the fire hazard is expected to increase to the “extreme” criteria over the next day. The ban prohibits all outside burning, including recreational fires. Approved propane or natural gas barbeques and firepits continue to be allowed.
While there are no active bans or advisories for local areas such as Fort Saskatchewan and Sturgeon County, the Labour Day long weekend forecast calls for hot and dry conditions, with Saturday’s high reaching 33 C.
A list of current fire bans and advisories can be found here.