Photo by Stephen Strand
As the August long weekend approaches, some Albertan campers may have to change their plans, as Parks Canada issues fire bans for some of southern Alberta.
According to Parks Canada, fire bans are effective July 30th for Banff, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks, due to “local fire danger, current and forecasted weather conditions, the amount of moisture in vegetation, the regional wildfire situation and the availability of responders and equipment.”
“Fire bans help ensure the safety of visitors, residents, and help reduce threats to park infrastructure,” Parks Canada said in a news release.
These fire bans prohibit the use of the following items:
- campfires (no wood or briquette fires);
- charcoal or briquette barbecues;
- turkey fryers;
- outdoor wood burning stoves (including cooking shelters);
- tiki torches; and
- candles.
However, you may not have to cancel your camping trip yet, as the following items are permitted during a fire ban, if used with direct supervision.
- portable propane fire pits (prohibited at overflow campgrounds);
- gas or propane stoves and barbeques designed for cooking or heating;
- propane or gas fueled lanterns (enclosed flame);
- patio heaters (propane, catalytic or infrared/radiant); and
- indoor wood burning stoves within fully enclosed permanent buildings (not wall tents or camper vans).
The agency asks anyone to report any wildfires, illegal campfires or suspicious smoke to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-4506.
As of now, there are no active wildfires in the three reigons.
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