A fire advisory in the County of St. Paul was put into effect on May 6, while the MD of Bonnyville has been under a partial fire ban since April 28.
St. Paul Fire Chief Trevor Kotowich confirmed that effective 4 p.m., on May 6, the County of St. Paul was under a fire advisory.
While safe campfires are permitted in campgrounds and in other county areas for cooking and heating purposes, the issuance of fire permits for other burning may be restricted. The issuance of new fire permits is suspended.
"We encourage everyone to be responsible while enjoying their outdoor fire. Never leave your fire unattended, and make sure your fire is out when you leave it," reads the media release.
Questions can be direct to the County of St. Paul at 780-645-3301 or St. Paul Fire Services at 780-645-4100.
A fire ban is also in place in Saddle Lake Cree Nation, as of April 27.
MD of Bonnyville
“We've had a significant fire every day for the last seven days. It's been extremely busy for the authority, and it's been extremely busy for the EMS department as well, as for our 911 centre," said Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority Chief Jay Melvin.
A partial fire ban is in place for the MD of Bonnyville, which means small backyard fires and campfires in designated pits are still allowed.
The fire ban prohibits the use of fireworks, burning barrels, charcoal briquettes, turkey fryers, tiki torches, exploding targets, and all open fires, including those in random camping areas.
"All fire permits are suspended, and no new fire permits will be issued. The fire ban does not apply to cities and towns," according to the M.D. of Bonnyville's media release.
"We're trying to protect the residents and we're trying to protect the property and lessen the hazard until things start to green up. Once they start to green up, then we can look at relaxing some of the restrictions, but those restrictions are put in place for their protection and for ours if we respond also," said Melvin.
For further information, please contact the Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority at 780-826-4755.
Fire bans, fire restrictions and fire advisories are in place throughout much of the province. For up to date information on fire bans throughout the province, visit www.albertafirebans.ca
