Alberta’s Rocky View County Issues Fire Advisory Amid Dry Conditions
Although Alberta’s fire season officially ends this Friday, dry and windy conditions have prompted new fire advisories in the southern part of the province, specifically affecting the east and west sides of Rocky View County.
The county’s website reports a moderate fire risk rating of 30 due to these weather factors.
Fire Advisory Details and Local Authority Statements
Deputy Fire Chief Bill Messner explains that it is not unusual to issue a fire advisory this late in the season. He notes the weather during this period can shift rapidly.
"This is definitely a period of season where honestly the weather can change very rapidly."
Messner also mentions an increase in grass fires over the past week, sometimes reaching as many as three incidents in a single day. Some fires may be human-caused, such as from improperly discarded cigarettes.
"Please use the proper receptacles. Please don't flick them out of the window. That definitely can cause a lot of issues that way."
Fire Ban and Safety Measures
The county has imposed a fire ban alongside the advisory, suspending all outstanding permits for fireworks and outdoor burns. However, exceptions are made for barbecues, camp stoves, and indoor fireplaces.
There is no confirmed date for when the advisory will be lifted, but Messner expects it to remain for at least another week due to ongoing dry weather.
Summary
The fire advisory and ban in Rocky View County highlight the risks posed by persistent dry conditions late in Alberta’s fire season, urging caution and responsible behavior to prevent fires.