Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) would like to remind you wildfire risk in the city is currently high.
Early spring is one of the highest-risk times for wildfire. Before grass greens up and trees leaf out, dry vegetation can ignite easily.
A small spark can quickly turn into a fast-moving fire. Wind can push flames through grass and natural areas, especially in coulees and along the River Valley.
Discarded smoking materials remain the leading cause of fires in Lethbridge’s natural areas. In these dry conditions, even one cigarette can start a grass fire that spreads quickly.
“We’re seeing campfires that are not lit in receptacles. They can come from that, and obviously lightning strikes, which is not very common around here. If you’re on a walk and you’re a smoker, like most hikers and campers have been doing for years — whatever you pack in, we ask that you pack it out, and that includes your cigarette butts,” says Fire Prevention Officer Neil Jesse. “As far as fires, we ask you to use the receptacles provided for you down in the river bottom. Propane fire pits are allowed, even in fire bans.”
LFES has already responded to two significant wildfires within city limits this year. With the potential for a dry spring, crews are preparing for increased fire activity.
Lieutenant and member of the Wildland Fire team Jason Schrage says crews are being actively trained, so they’re ready to respond. “But reducing risk starts with all of us.”
This week, members of the Wildland Fire team were down in Popson Park doing scenario testing to strengthen response capabilities and ensure operational readiness, Schrage explains.
“Where we would deploy our wildland pumps in our trucks and string a line in the event we had a wildfire. We have unique pumps. They’re what the forestry uses in their wildfire forestry setting. We have adopted them into the wildland, grassland setting, as well. They’re high-pressure pumps, deployed over about 5,000 feet, and they deliver 100 PSI of water in a one-inch line. So very versatile, very user friendly,” adds Schrage. “What they do is prevent us from having to cut our way into dry lands or wetlands and risk getting our trucks stuck and doing damage to other natural habitats to mitigate the fire and extinguish it.”
You’re also encouraged to take simple steps to reduce the risk of fire on your property, especially if you live near coulees and natural grasslands.
LFES recommends taking the following FireSmart steps:
- Keep grass cut short and well-maintained.
- Remove dry leaves, branches, and other combustible materials from around your home.
- Maintain a clear space between structures and flammable vegetation.
- Use caution with open flames, smoking materials, and equipment that may produce sparks.
These steps help protect homes, neighbourhoods and emergency responders.
“If you see smoke, call 9-1-1 right away,” adds Schrage. “The sooner crews are notified, the better chance we have of containing the fire.”
As a reminder Schrage adds the southern Alberta fire season is year-round.
(Photo by Stan Ashbee)
