With the ongoing dry weather and high winds in the forecast, the Stettler Regional Fire Department has issued a fire restriction effective April 12.
The fire department advises “the public to use extreme caution” and only conduct “necessary burning.”
Additionally, the department says to be aware of weather conditions while burning and be prepared to extinguish the fire if a weather change increases the hazard.
Don’t leave a fire unattended, and ensure appropriate water and equipment are available to extinguish it.
Off-highway vehicles such as ATVs can start wildfires as well, and they need to be inspected frequently to ensure mufflers and spark arrestors and functioning as they should.
With the restriction in effect, no new permits will be issued, and existing permit holders will be allowed to complete scheduled burns provided “extreme caution” is taken.
Essential burning in incinerators made of non-combustible material with a tight-fighting metal mesh screen with openings 13mm or smaller is allowed, as are backyard fire pits and campfires “contained by non-combustible materials.”
The use of propane firepits, gas or propane stoves and barbecues is also allowed.
Fire Restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.
For more information, contact the Stettler Regional Fire Department at 403-742-4441 or check out albertafirebans.ca.