What is a Fire Ban?
During a fire ban, a number of factors can play a role in determing when a fire ban is declared, including:
- levels of both recent and total precipitation;
- what is the risk of a fire getting out of control;
- relation between temperature and humidity;
- water restrictions or water bans; and/or
- appropriate staffing and equipment due to other fires being fought within the County.
If conditions require, Strathcona County Emergency Services may declare a fire ban. Fire bans are communicated to residents through the newspaper, radio, road signs and Strathcona County's website. Other ways of communicating may include direct emails and other mediums.
The use of propane or natural gas stoves used for cooking are permitted. Fire permits and fireworks permits are temporarily suspended.
If ATV'ing, please use extreme caution. Ensure the ATV is equipped with the spark arrestor.
Any person who ignites, fuels, supervises, maintains or permits an outdoor fire within the municipal boundaries of Strathcona County during a fire ban can be fined $1,000. Should the fire get out of control and emergency fire response is required, the person responsible for the fire can be charged the full firefighting costs.
A fire ban is not the same as a temporary suspension of buring privileges, which applies to fires which require a permit.
When a fire ban in Strathcona County is in place or is taken off, it will be announced here, at www.albertafirebans.ca or on Strathcona County's burning information line at 780-464-8464. Information is also posted on the UPDATEline at 1-866-653-9959.
Further information
emergencyservices@strathcona.ab.ca
780-467-5216
Last updated: Thursday, May 26, 2011
Page ID: 2322