Lethbridge County officials are advising residents that a fire restriction remains in effect for the county as of Monday, May 8, 2023. (Photo: LNN)

By Justin Goulet

Reminder: Fire restriction remains in effect in Lethbridge County

May 8, 2023 | 11:18 AM

UPDATE: (June 15, 2023)

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge County has lifted the fire restriction, effective June 15, 2023.

READ MORE: Fire restriction lifted for Lethbridge County

LETHBRIDGE COUNTY, AB – Officials with Lethbridge County are reminding residents that a fire restriction is still in effect.

The restriction was issued on Monday, May 1, 2023, due to warm and dry weather conditions.

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READ MORE: Fire restriction issued for Lethbridge County

Byron Fraser, Manager of Fire Services for Lethbridge County said, “We did not receive enough rain over the weekend to lift the restriction.”

“The fire risk remains in Lethbridge County, and we are encouraging the public to continue being vigilant in preventing wildfires.”

Under the fire restriction, all active fire and fireworks permits are cancelled. No new permits will be issued until further notice. Officials noted that fines apply for burning while a restriction is in place.

EXCEPTIONS

Recreational campfires, which include campground and backyard fire pits, as well as acceptable incinerators that meet the specifications of the Lethbridge County Bylaw #22-002 are allowed. However, users are asked to use these with increased caution. Residents can visit the Lethbridge County website to see if their products meet the criteria.

Fires contained in cooking or heating appliances fueled by fluids or gasses, including gas or propane fueled fire rings, barbecues, stoves, and heaters, are allowed.

Fraser stated, “Lethbridge County is encouraging the public to be prepared this wildfire season.”

“Having an emergency kit for your household, as well as a plan for your family and pets is important in the event you may be evacuated from your home.”

A kit should include essential items such as food, water, first aid supplies, and medications to last for at least three days, as well as important documents like copies of insurance policies and identification. More details about emergency kits are available at the Government of Alberta website.

Residents are advised to make sure their vehicles are fueled up in case an evacuation order is issued in their community. Citizens can also download the Alberta Emergency Alert app to receive notifications about any emergencies in the province. The app is available on the Apple Store and Google Play store.

Lethbridge County officials stated that if weather conditions do not improve, the fire restriction could transition to a fire ban. The current status is available at the Lethbridge County website.

READ MORE: Alberta declares provincial state of emergency due to wildfires

READ MORE: Province says over 29,000 people evacuated due to wildfires