Indian Battle Park in the Lethbridge river valley. (City of Lethbridge)

By Justin Goulet

Despite low risk, fire ban still in effect in Lethbridge river bottom

Mar 5, 2021 | 11:56 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – With nice weather conditions in the region, and outdoor gatherings allowed with restrictions, some in Lethbridge might want to get together for a fire in the river valley.

Unfortunately, that’s still not allowed.

As listed on the City of Lethbridge website and albertafirebans.ca, the fire ban remains in effect for the river bottom area in the city.

“As much as we would love for citizens to enjoy a bonfire with family and friends in the river bottom, it is very difficult to maintain social distancing around a campfire, especially when numbers for public gatherings can reach up to 50 persons,” reads the fire ban notice from the City of Lethbridge.

The city notes that the fire ban DOES NOT include the use of backyard fire pits, following the City of Lethbridge’s open burning bylaw (which can be viewed here), or fires that are fueled by gasses (gas or propane fueled fire rings, BBQs, stoves and heaters).

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WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Meanwhile, in Waterton Lakes National Park, campfires are permitted but only in metal fire pits or boxes provided by Parks Canada.

The park notes that random fires are NEVER allowed.

Some ways to safely enjoy a campfire in a national park include:

· Keeping campfires small and only in designated fire pits or boxes;

· Never leave a flame unattended;

· Completely extinguish campfires with water. Soak it, stir it, and soak it again until it is cool to the touch before leaving it;

· Campers are required to purchase a fire permit before using fire pits in road-accessible campgrounds. Campfires are not permitted during quiet hours (11 p.m. to 7 a.m.);

· Campfires are not allowed in some backcountry campgrounds. Check backcountry camping information or ask at the Visitor Centre before setting out on a hike;

· If you see a wildfire, suspicious smoke or illegal fires in Waterton Lakes National park, call Parks Canada Dispatch right away at 1-888-927-3367 or call 911;

· Do not throw cigarettes on the ground. Put them out and discard in a bin.

ALBERTA PARKS

Another note for outdoor enthusiasts is that camping reservations in the province opened earlier this week.

READ MORE: Alberta Parks to start accepting camping reservations March 4

Campers can book individual sites for bookings up to 90 days in advance. Reservations can be made online here.