Fire restriction in effect for Strathcona County

A fire restriction has been declared for Strathcona County, effective 4 p.m. on May 5. The County has called the restriction in response to the dry conditions and windy weather. The restriction applies to all rural areas in the County.

All fire and fireworks permits are suspended until further notice. 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 

“Please phone 9-1-1 to report a fire,” says Fire Chief Martin Paulson of Strathcona County Emergency Services. “It is very dry out and we need everyone to be cautious and do their part to reduce the chance of a wildfire getting out of control.”

The majority of wildfires are human caused. Everyone can do their part to prevent wildfires by:  

• disposing of smoking materials properly instead of flicking them out a vehicle window or putting them out in a planter 
• fully extinguishing a fire by soaking it with water, stirring it and soaking it again. If it’s warm, it isn’t extinguished. If it was a large burn pile, check it again in a couple days to make sure it is out. 
• ensuring your ATV is equipped with a spark arrestor. 

Any change to the restriction will be announced on the County’s website at strathcona.ca, on social media, through an SC Alert and on Strathcona County’s Burning Status Line. Call or text “BURN” to 844-414-BURN (2876) to receive an immediate automated reply.  

Sign up for an SC Alert to stay updated on current and future fire restrictions and bans at strathcona.ca/SCAlert.

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