In a response to ongoing dry and hot conditions causing wildfire conditions in the province, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency has issued a provincial fire ban.
The ban is in effect for all Crown Lands, provincial parks and the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District, effective immediately. It covers all fires, including firepits, open fires, controlled burns and fireworks.
Currently, there are 18 wildfires burning across the province, and there have been 202 to date, slightly over the five year average of 195.
“We know that this is a popular weekend for camping and outdoor activities, but due to the extreme conditions across the province, implementing a fire ban was a necessary decision,” SPSA Vice-President of Operations Steve Roberts explains.
Many local municipalities, including here in the Midwest, have issued fire bans as well. A full map can be found on the Government of Saskatchewan’s website.
If someone comes across wildfire, they should call 1-800-667-9660, dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office.