What is a Fire Ban?
A fire ban has been declared for Strathcona County, effective noon on May 7. No outdoor fires are permitted until further notice. This applies to all rural areas, hamlets, and Sherwood Park.
May 7, 2013 - Fire ban in effect: fire risk is high
A fire ban has been declared for all of Strathcona County, effective at noon today. This ban applies to all rural areas, hamlets, and Sherwood Park. The County has called the ban in response to dry conditions, lack of moisture and windy conditions.
No outdoor fires are permitted until further notice, including recreational fire pits, use of charcoal barbecues, burning barrels, propane and natural gas fires (including those contained in designated fire facilities and portable fire pits) and fireworks. The use of propane and natural gas stoves used for cooking are permitted.
Fire permits are temporarily suspended.
Fine for violation: Anyone who sets an outdoor fire during the ban can be fined up to $1,000. Should a fire get out of control and emergency response be required, the person setting the fire could be responsible for firefighting costs. Residents are reminded to call 9-1-1 to report a fire.
Any changes in the situation 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 or can be obtained by dialing 211.
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During a fire ban, a number of factors can play a role in determining 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 burning 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.ca
780-449-9651
Last updated: Tuesday, May 07, 2013
Page ID: 2322