A fire ban has been placed on all open fires in the City of Lethbridge’s river valley and a fire restriction is now in place for Lethbridge County.
“The current weather conditions, including high temperatures, low humidity and forecasted winds, significantly increase the risk of fire. These factors contribute to extreme fire conditions,” says the City.
City and County residents are advised to exercise extra caution, particularly when disposing of smoking materials, as they can easily ignite dry vegetation and cause uncontrolled fires.
For more information on Lethbridge fire bans, visit the City’s website.
The County’s restriction is in place to prevent wildfires. “They threaten public safety and can result in evacuation orders, property damage, poor air quality and road closures.”
All active fire and fireworks permits are immediately cancelled within the County. “No new ones will be issued until further notice. Fines apply for open burning during a Fire Restriction.”
The County says recreational campfires (campground and backyard fire pits) are still permitted.
Fires in cooking or heating appliances fuelled by fluids or gases are allowed, within the County, as well. These include gas or propane-fuelled fire rings, BBQs, stoves and heaters.
Also permitted are incinerators that meet the specifications of the County’s Fire Bylaw.
“We all have a crucial role to play in preventing wildfires,” says Heath Wright, regional manager of County Emergency Services. “It only takes a single spark to start a wildfire, which can have devastating consequences throughout the region.”
