Current status: Fire ban in effect
A fire ban is currently in effect for all of Strathcona County.
Read the media release for more details and scroll down for activities that are allowed and prohibited.
Off-highway vehicle (OHV) restrictions
- The recreational use of off-highway vehicles is prohibited on all public lands, including on designated OHV trails. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.
Strathcona County wildfire update
The two wildfires that started on Friday, May 5 are contained and under control with overhaul of hot spots continuing.
Thank you to everyone that is reaching out with offers of donations and volunteering. We do not need donations or volunteers right now. If you would like to send a note of thanks to our fire fighters, please email emergencyservices@strathcona.ca.
The fires are having a large impact on our community and the province. It’s okay to feel affected, even if you do not have a direct connection to the event or person. Acknowledge your feelings, connect with those you care about and seek additional support if you are having a hard time managing your emotions. Please call 780-464-4044 or visit strathcona.ca/fcs to access counselling supports.
Fire ban levels
There are three different fire conditions that may be put into effect - a fire advisory, restriction and ban.
What is a fire advisory?
A fire advisory is when conditions are drying or it is too windy (above 20 km/hour) there may be the need to temporarily suspend fire and fireworks permits. Contact the Burning Status Line for the current status. Check back throughout the day as conditions may change.
What is a fire restriction?
A fire restriction is when all fire and fireworks permits are suspended.
What is NOT allowed:
- open fires (brush, bonfires)
- burn barrels
- fireworks
What is allowed:
- recreational fire pits with a screen, chimineas
- propane or natural gas tables, bowls and appliances
- all barbecues
What is a fire ban?
A fire ban is when no outdoor fires are allowed.
What is NOT allowed:
- open fires (brush, bonfires etc.)
- burn barrels
- fireworks
- fire pits or chimineas
- solid fuel barbecues (charcoal, pellets etc.) without an on/off switch
What is allowed:
- cooking and recreational appliances that can be turned on or off using a switch or valve (fire table, electric smoker, pellet, propane or natural gas barbecues)
Issuing a fire advisory, restriction or ban
Emergency Services compiles and reviews current and forecasted data such as humidity, ground moisture, temperature and precipitation specific to Strathcona County. This information determines the Fire Weather Index. There are five levels to the index, low, moderate, high, very high and extreme.
Other factors reviewed include:
- Risk of a fires getting out of control
- Relation between temperature and humidity
- Water restrictions or water bans
Fire bans are declared and lifted by the Fire Chief or designate.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans to get information on current fire bans, advisories and restrictions throughout the province.
We always encourage our residents to follow safe burning practises. All residents with a fire permit must call the Burning Status line at 780-464-8464 or text the word “BURN” to 587-340-3696 before burning, to make sure burning is allowed.
Do you have a fire permit?
All residents with a fire permit must call the Burning Status line at 780-464-8464 or text the word “BURN” to 587-340-3696 before burning, to make sure burning is allowed. Conditions may change throughout the day.
William, a 9 year old Sherwood Park resident, explains what a fire ban is.
Phone: 780-449-9651
Email: Fireprevention@strathcona.ca
