The use of ATVs and UTVs has been paused in Saskatchewan as the province is under a state of emergency due to wildfires.
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) says the use of ATVs and UTVs, or Utility Task Vehicles, is now prohibited on:
- All vacant Crown land
- Provincial parks located within the provincial forest
The provincial forest includes the Northern Saskatchewan Administrative District.
The fire ban also prohibits any open fires, controlled burns, and fireworks in these areas.
“The vast majority of the active fires in the province are caused by human activity,” says SPSA Vice-President of Operations Steve Roberts.
As of May 29 at 4:00 p.m., 17 wildfires are burning in the province. To date, Saskatchewan has had 207 wildfires, which is 40 more than at the same time last year, when there were 167. The wildfire 5-year average in Saskatchewan is 125.
“By revising the fire ban to prohibit ATVs and UTVs, Saskatchewan is taking a significant step in reducing the number of fire starts, says Roberts.
If you spot a wildfire, call 1-800-667-9660, 9-1-1, or contact the closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office.
People can find an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps, and fire prevention tips at saskpublicsafety.ca.
A list of fire bans and restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites can be found here.
