May 24, 2011
Alberta-wide fire ban lifted
Edmonton... Precipitation in much of Alberta has reduced the wildfire hazard in many areas. As a result, the number of wildfires in Alberta has dropped, reducing some pressure on provincial firefighting resources, allowing the Alberta government to lift the province-wide fire ban.
Municipal fire bans and some provincial park fire bans may still be in effect, so Albertans are advised to check the status of these fire bans by visiting
www.albertafirebans.ca The risk of fire remains high in many areas. Since the start of April, Alberta has recorded about 511 wildfires, which have burned more than 330,000 hectares. The fire hazard across Alberta changes daily. Albertans are asked to take extra care with any type of fire this summer to ensure they don’t accidentally cause a wildfire. Alberta typically experiences about 1,600 wildfire starts a year – about half of those are caused by human carelessness.
To report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473).
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Media inquiries may be directed to:
Duncan MacDonnell
Alberta Sustainable Resource Development 780-975-8159
[email protected] To call toll-free within Alberta dial 310-0000.