Deputy Chief of Brittania Fire department Aaron Buckingham is advising residents to take precautions heading into the long weekend.
“The biggest thing about May long weekend is knowing where you’re going and what the rules are for that particular area. Of course, people travel all over the place and different areas have different rules, some have fire bans on, some have fire bans off, some have no alcohol policies and no fires in provincial parks for the long weekend.”
Some of the communities that will have Fire bans/restrictions in place include the R.M. of Brittania, the R.M. of North Battleford County of Vermilion River, Minburn and Two Hills. Rules for burning will vary in each area.
“Keeping your campfires in check and not building them up so big that it is throwing sparks and ash long distances is very important. The last thing would be when you’re done that fire, that you’re actually making sure that it is completely out having the water source available to make sure you’re don’t just going to bed leaving that fire burning.”
Buckingham urges residents to have fun during the long weekend, but to make sure you’re doing everything safely as humanly possible.
“Remember to never drink and drive or drink and ride. Of course, long weekends, and any weekend, in particular, people head out and they go into the forest and go quadding on trails. You want to be very careful you’re not indulging in those type of things well you’re doing that.”
Buckingham adds residents should keep up with the maintenance and cleanliness of their off-road vehicles. He says even a spark from an ATV can cause a fire hazard.