Level III Fire Ban for the city of Calgary Lifted

The Calgary Fire Department would like to announce that the current Level III fire ban has been lifted in time for this May long weekend. This change is in effect as of 16:00 hrs (4 p.m.) today.

On Saturday, May 11, the Calgary Fire Chief implemented a Level III fire ban due to low humidity combined with anticipated dry, warm winds in the city of Calgary.

“The recent moisture and lower temperatures have culminated in the decision to lift the ban,” said acting Fire Chief Tom Sampson. “We want to thank Calgarians for their adherence to the ban over the past week.”

This means that restrictions have been removed from using back yard fire pits (compliant with the city bylaws), camp stoves, solid fuel barbecues (charcoal briquettes), chimeneas and recreational campfires in city parks within provided pits or stoves.

Although the fire ban for the City has been lifted, a Fire Advisory remains in place. The Calgary Fire Department would like to remind citizens travelling out of town to respect the bans that may still be in effect in other jurisdictions across the province.

“It is important to acknowledge that there are still active wildfires in the province,” said the acting Fire Chief. “We need to be respectful of other jurisdictions outside of Calgary and be vigilant when visiting those areas.”

As grass fires are still a major risk this time of year, Calgarians are encouraged to remain cautious and properly discard of their smoking materials.

Open burning, incinerators and burning barrels are not permitted at any time within Calgary city limits and permits are still required for the use of fireworks, ground thawing and for any event performances using open flame.

To report a fire, call 911 immediately and move to a safe location. For any non-emergency fire safety information, please call 311. Fire Prevention is everyone’s responsibility.

For information on fire bans outside Calgary and more information on fire bans visit the Alberta Fire Bans page (albertafirebans.ca).

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