Fire Bans

A fire ban is an order issued by the provincial government and / or the County of Wetaskiwin to restrict the use of fire in areas of high hazard. The order describes what types of fire are allowed or may in fact entirely prohibit the use of any fire.

Minimizing the Risk of Accidental Wildfires
As the wildfire hazard climbs in areas of the province, local wildfire management areas make recommendations to the Minister of Sustainable Resource Development to initiate an order to implement a fire ban. This is a tool to attempt to minimize the risk of accidental wildfires resulting from human activity. The ministerial order is a temporary law in effect until it is revoked when the wildfire hazard has sufficiently lowered.

Ban Notices
A complete list of Provincial Fire Bans can be found by visiting the Alberta Fire Bans website. Fire bans are also advertised on w1440/CFCW radio station and in the Millet Pipestone Flyer. If in doubt, call the County office at 780-352-3321.
No Restriction
Fire permits are required during fire season for any type of burning in the FPA, except campfires. Safe campfires are allowed in campgrounds and backcountry or random camping areas.
Fire Advisory
The fire hazard rating has increased. Fire permits may be restricted. Safe campfires are allowed in campgrounds and backcountry or random camping areas, but this level is a warning they may be restricted if the situation does not improve.
Fire Restriction
Safe campfires are allowed in fire rings in campgrounds only. No campfires (or other open fires) or charcoal briquettes are allowed in backcountry or random camping areas. Gas or propane stoves/barbeques and portable propane fire pits are allowed.
Fire permits may be suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued. If the situation continues to worsen, ESRD will put on a fire ban.
Fire Ban
No campfires (or other open fires) are allowed in campgrounds or backcountry and random camping areas. This includes charcoal briquettes. Gas or propane stoves/barbeques and portable propane fire pits are allowed. All fire permits are suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
Forest Area Closure
The fire hazard has reached such extreme levels that portions of the forest are closed and no access is permitted for public safety concerns.