Fire ban issued for City of Calgary

Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for the city of Calgary due to increased wildfire smoke causing poor air quality and reduced visibility. To support the health and safety of Calgarians, the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) has issued a fire ban prohibiting the use of fire pits, recreational campfires, outdoor fireplaces and other open flame devices that burn solid fuels, such as wood or briquettes.

“The Calgary Fire Department closely monitors all conditions throughout the year,” says Deputy Chief Ken Uzeloc. “Today’s fire ban reflects significant, increased risk of air quality resulting from wildfire smoke and a need to restrict burning that would contribute to this.” CFD considers a number of factors when evaluating the need for a fire ban and the health and safety of Calgarians is the primary goal.

The fire ban includes all parks in the city.

Under the fire ban, the following are prohibited:

• Open fires
• Fire pits
• Outdoor chimeneas
• Recreational solid fuel barbecues and stoves (charcoal briquettes or wood)
• Tiki torches

The following are currently allowed:

• Gas or propane fire pits that are CSA approved or ULC certified.
• Gas or propane stoves and barbeques that are CSA approved or ULC certified.
• Patio heaters (propane, catalytic or infrared/radiant)
• Approved commercial solid fuel cooking appliances. (e.g. BBQ and Pizza establishments/vendors)
• Ceremonial events with an approved CFD permit
• Fireworks with an approved CFD permit
• Internal household fireplaces
• Indoor open-air flame fires with an approved CFD permit

The fire ban will be in effect until further notice, when smoke and weather conditions are no longer deemed a risk to health and safety.

For more information on Calgary fire bans and fire safety advisories, visit calgary.ca/firebans or contact 311. Remember to always call 9-1-1 to report a fire.