Calgary,
08
April
2021
|
11:43
America/Denver

The Calgary Fire Department reminds citizens to do their part to prevent grass fires

Calgary and southern Alberta have experienced a number of very large, dangerous, and rapidly moving grass fires recently. “Extremely dry weather conditions and gusty winds can have widespread and catastrophic outcomes when it comes to grass fires,” says Calgary Fire Department Battalion Chief Alistair Robin, “even moderate amounts of rain or light snow aren’t sufficient to reduce this risk.”

Dry conditions increase the risk for fires to ignite, while windy weather increases the speed of growth and spread of any fire. Be vigilant when disposing of smoking materials and when using outdoor flames.

Fire prevention tips include:

  • Be very careful when lighting fires outdoors, including barbeques and backyard fire pits. Visit calgary.ca/firepits for City of Calgary Fire Pit rules and regulations.
  • Always safely dispose smoking materials in non-combustible containers. Never put smoking material in the trash can or near anything that can burn.
  • Before you throw out cigarette butts and ashes, make sure they are completely extinguished; put out smoking material in water or sand.
  • Do not throw out cigarettes, into planters or potted plants they can easily catch fire.
  • Be sure to clean up and safely dispose of dry yard debris such as grass and leaves.

To learn about the status of fire bans and advisories throughout Alberta visit albertafirebans.ca and to learn about Calgary fire bans and safety advisories, visit Calgary.ca/fire/bansansadvisories or call 311. Remember to always call 9-1-1 to report a fire.

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