A fire restriction is in effect for all of Lacombe County due to exceptionally dry conditions and a lack of foreseeable precipitation.
At this time, the county has cancelled current fire permits and suspended any fire permit requests.
All existing fires to which the ban applies must be extinguished immediately.
What is permitted during a fire restriction?
• Safe wood campfires*
• Bylaw-compliant backyard fire pits
• Portable propane fire pits
• Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
• Catalytic or infrared-style heaters
*Safe wood campfires include those in campgrounds, on private lands, and in backyards. They must be within a metal, brick, or rock fire ring and comply with Lacombe County’s fire bylaw. Safe wood campfires are required to:
a) Be on rock, gravel, sand, or another non-combustible surface that extends at least one metre around the fire;
b) Have a responsible person in attendance to keep fires under control at all times and extinguish before leaving; and have enough water on site to extinguish the fire.
Remember that off-highway vehicles can start wildfires – frequently check to ensure hotspots are free of debris and make sure mufflers and spark arrestors are working properly.
Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it, and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.
Burns already completed should be checked, and extra care should be used to ensure burns are completely extinguished. This fire restriction may be elevated to a fire ban at any time and will remain in effect until conditions improve.
Stay informed on fire restrictions and bans by checking www.albertafirebans.ca or visiting www.lacombecounty.com.