Calgary, AB,
04
August
2017
|
14:25
America/Denver

Calgary Fire Department urges caution with outdoor flames over August long weekend

To help reduce fire risk caused by continuing dry, warm weather with the possibility of strong winds, the Calgary Fire Department is urging citizens to use caution when using outdoor open flames, including barbeques and backyard fire pits and when disposing of smoking materials.

“As Calgarians prepare to enjoy their August long weekend, we ask that everyone be vigilant when disposing of smoking materials and when using outdoor flames,” says Carol Henke, public information officer for Calgary Fire.

“Improper disposal of smoking materials is the leading cause of outdoor fires in Calgary and should be disposed of in proper ashtrays,” adds Henke, noting that “all fire pits should be used with spark guards according to The City’s Community Standards Bylaw.”

Calgarians should be particularly cautious in the city’s natural areas and green spaces where extremely dry vegetation covering the ground provides readily combustible fuel if an ignition source is applied.

The long weekend advisory has been initiated due to a combination of factors, with continued dry conditions, as well as fluctuating air quality due to wild fires in BC and Banff /Kootenay National Parks.

There is no fire ban currently within Calgary. The Calgary Fire Department will continue to monitor weather, moisture indices in fuels and the Air Quality Health Index to determine if a full fire ban is necessary.

For more information on Calgary fire bans and fire safety advisories, visit calgary.ca/firebans or contact 311. If you are travelling outside of Calgary, please learn the status of fire bans and advisories throughout Alberta at https://albertafirebans.ca/.

Remember to always call 9-1-1 to report a fire.