The fire restriction has been upgraded to a fire ban due to extremely dry and windy conditions in Lacombe County.
“Lacombe County conditions are dry, and the high wind speeds this week have posed a real risk to properties, natural areas, and community safety,” Manager of Fire and Emergency Services, Dave Bain said.
Lacombe County will issue no new fire permits or fireworks permits, and existing permits have already been cancelled, Lacombe County staff said.
During the fire ban, it is important to note:
- No burning barrels are permitted under this ban
- Gas/propane stoves, barbeques, and portable propane fire pits are permitted but must always be attended to
- Any outdoor fires, including campfires, presently burning within Lacombe County must be extinguished immediately
- The ignition of all outdoor fires within the boundaries of Lacombe County are prohibited
The fire ban doesn't apply to:
- Fires contained within cooking and heating appliances, which are fueled by fluids, gases, charcoal briquettes, or wood pellets
- Propane-fueled fire pits
It is also important for residents to check old burn pits to ensure fires are fully extinguished.
“Please check those old piles today,” Bain said.
“While those fires may have appeared extinguished, deep ground fires can smoulder unseen for weeks or even months, and strong spring winds and dry conditions create the perfect environment for these hidden embers to reignite."
While checking old burn sites used this past winter or in early spring, use a metal rod to probe deep into the pile. If the rod is warm, that means the fire is not out.
Hot spots should then be soaked thoroughly with water.
Just because smoke isn't visible doesn't mean the fire is out.
Lacombe County and Lacombe County Fire Services also want to remind the public to use caution when operating off-road vehicles or farm equipment, as hot exhaust pipes pose a fire hazard, as well as ensuring proper disposal of cigarette butts, as they can easily light dried brush and grass.
The fire ban will remain in place until conditions improve.
Latest updates on fire advisories, restrictions, or bans can be found on the website, albertafirebans.ca, as well as the Lacombe County website, www.lacombecounty.com.
