The County of Wetaskiwin is now under a fire advisory. Conditions in the County are dry as there is minimal snow coverage and low moisture levels.
Between Nov. 1 and Feb. 28 a fire permit is not required for open burns, however; extreme caution is required when burning in dry conditions.
There are no restrictions on burning at this time and citizens can continue to burn open fires, use cooking and heating appliances – such as barbecues, firepits and patio heaters – fueled by liquid fuel like propane or natural gas and use approved burn barrels and firepits.
Even though open burns do not need a permit during this time frame, Alberta still experiences dry windy conditions that can lead to an open burn spreading. As a precaution during the fall and winter months, different measures should be followed to prevent fires from becoming a nuisance or burning out of control.
Below are some tips to consider:
- Ensure wind is not blowing towards roadways or nearby properties when you burn, as smoke doesn’t dissipate as quickly and can linger in the area for greater periods of time.
- Ensure there is sufficient snow coverage to prevent fire from spreading.
- Ensure windrows are properly prepared for ignition and use caution when burning.
- Windrows must not exceed 60 meters in length and must have an eight-meter break between them.
- Windrows must be at least 25 meters from uncleared land or standing hazardous fuels and should be separated from other parallel windrows by at least 15 meters.
Fire officials will continue to monitor conditions, and a fire restriction or ban could be issued. The County will update the public on any change at www.county.wetaskiwin.ab.ca and albertafirebans.ca.
