UPDATE: The City of Lethbridge has implemented a fire ban for all open fires in the City of Lethbridge River Valley. According to officials, the ban is due to warm temperatures, high winds and a lack of moisture. This combination is reported to create a high risk of fast-moving, uncontrolled fires.
According to the advisory, “Even a small spark can quickly spread in dry grass and brush.”
Residents and visitors are asked to use extra caution and those who smoke are asked to ensure all smoking materials are fully extinguished and disposed of safely.
Due to high wildfire risk sustained warm temperatures, high winds and a lack of moisture Lethbridge County has implemented a fire restriction as of Monday, Nov. 9.
According to county officials, due to an increased risk of wildfires all active burn and fireworks permits have been cancelled, and no new permits will be issued while the restriction is in place.
During the restriction there are a number of activities that are allowed, as long as they meet the requirements of the County’s Fire Bylaw. This includes recreational campfires in approved fire pits, nurn barrels and incinerators equipped with spark arrestors, charcoal briquette barbecues and wood pellet grills, along with CSA- or ULC-approved gas or propane stoves, heaters and firepits.
According to Lethbridge County officials, the municipality uses a data-driven approach to determine when fire restrictions are necessary.
Officials regularly review weather forecasts, wind conditions and vegetation moisture levels, while consulting with regional fire chiefs to assess wildfire risks.
When those indicators point to an increased chance of fast-spreading fires, the County issues advisories to help protect public safety and property.
