The town and county are both under a fire restriction after the recent spell of hot, dry weather.
Westlock County fire chief John Biro said the change in status means no new fire permits will be issued. And while the recent heat has put the county back on high alert, Biro said conditions have been dry right from spring.
“Basically right from spring we haven’t been getting the moisture where we typically would any other year,” he said. “It’s one of the drier years that we’ve had.”
In order to be in a position to lift the advisory or restriction status a lot of rain is needed.
“We need at least a good week of continuous rain in the evenings,” Biro said. “We’re getting a few spot showers, but nothing to help us out in our high-hazard areas.”
With over 100 wildfires burning in the province as of July 11, Biro said the county is taking extra precautions.
“Lac La Biche is our main mutual-aid partner and with the amount of wildfires burning in the province, we like to comply with them,” he said. “If they’re adding on restrictions, I have no hesitation to follow. If something does happen, they’re kind of our first call and they’re busy.
“Earlier in the spring we were lucky they weren’t as busy and they were able to support us when we needed help.”
Barbecues and backyard campfires are still permitted, provided they comply with the county’s bylaws.
Biro also recommends residents consider taking out a wildfire insurance policy, if they are not already covered.
For up to date information on fire statuses visit albertafirebans.ca.
