CURRENT CONDITIONS IN THE CALGARY FOREST AREA
The wildfire danger rating across the Calgary Forest Area (CFA) is VERY HIGH. Extended periods of extreme temperatures combined with low relative humidity and no precipitation has rapidly pushed the fire danger rating up. Although there is some precipitation in the forecast, it may not be widespread enough to sufficiently reduce the wildfire danger rating.
FIRE ADVISORY IS NOW IN EFFECT IN THE CFA
Under this advisory:
- All existing fire permits are suspended, with the exception of burn barrels;
- No new fire permits will be issued until conditions change;
- Some essential burning may be allowed, at the discretion of a forest officer.
Prohibited:
- Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire, is prohibited.
Allowed:
- Safe wood campfires *
- Backyard fire pits
- Portable propane fire pits
- Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
- Catalytic or infrared-style heaters
*Safe wood campfires - should be within a metal, brick, or rock fire ring. They are required to:
- Be on rock, gravel, sand, or another non-combustible surface that extends at least one metre around the fire;
- Have a responsible person in attendance to keep fire under control at all times and extinguish before leaving;
- Have on hand enough water on site to extinguish the fire.
Although campfires are currently allowed, they may be restricted in the coming days if conditions warrant.
CANADA DAY EXTENDED WEEKEND
As you head out to enjoy the rest of the weekend and start your summer plans, please check albertafirebans.ca to determine whether there are any fire advisories, fire restrictions or fire bans in effect for your destination. If you plan on having a campfire, keep it small, safe and always attended. When you are leaving your site or headed to bed, your campfire must be fully extinguished. Soak it, stir it, soak it again to ensure it is out.
Off highway vehicles can start wildfires. Please stop often to clean your exhaust to ensure you are not the cause of a wildfire. Stay on approved trails and follow all guidelines.
Please remember that exploding targets and fireworks are prohibited in the Forest Protection Area without express written permission from a forest officer. These devices have already caused several wildfires this year. Using exploding targets without permission could land you a $600 fine and if you cause a wildfire, you could also be held responsible for the costs of fighting the wildfire.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE*
Since March 1, there have been 639 wildfires which have burned 2,900 hectares in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province, please visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca
*As of 10 am, June 28, 2021
Unless conditions change, you can expect your next update on July 5, 2021.
MORE INFORMATION:
Calgary Forest Area Information Officer
403-818-0938
io.calgary@gov.ab.ca
RELATED INFORMATION
Websites:
- Alberta Wildfire
- Alberta Fire Bans
- FireSmart in Alberta
- Alberta Emergency Alerts
- Air Quality Health Index
- Wildfire Smoke and Your Health
- 511 Road Reports
- Emergency Preparation
Social Media:
