Extreme conditions spark fire ban for Calgary

Continued hot, dry weather has led to a fire ban for Calgary that prohibits the use of firepits, recreational campfires, outdoor fireplaces and other open flame devices that burn solid fuels, such as wood or briquettes.

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"Calgary Fire has been closely monitoring all conditions throughout the summer," Deputy Chief Allan Ball said in a release.

"Today's fire ban reflects significant, increased risk of outdoor fires due to unseasonably dry ground conditions combined with high daytime temperatures."

The ban will remain in effect until "ground and weather conditions are no longer deemed a risk to health and safety."

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Fines for violating the ban range from $500 to $5,000.

"We don't normally see outdoor grasses and ground cover this dry until late September or early October, after fall frost has dried and cured these available fuels," said Ball in the release. "These are extreme conditions."

Under the fire ban, the following are prohibited:

• Open fires
• Firepits
• Outdoor chimeneas
• Solid fuel barbecues and stoves (charcoal briquettes or wood)
• Tiki torches
• Fireworks and exploding targets

The following are currently allowed:

• Portable propane firepits that are CSA approved or UL certified
• Gas or propane stoves and barbequesthat are CSA approved or UL certified
• Patio heaters (propane, catalytic or infrared/radiant)
• Internal household fireplaces
• Indoor open air fire permits

For more information, visit the city's website or call 311.

Fire bans are currently in place across much of southern Alberta.