Due to hot, dry conditions and increasing fire activity, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency has issued a provincial fire ban for all provincial Crown lands, including provincial parks located with the fire ban area, for most of east-central Saskatchewan. It also includes all land within 4.5 km of the provincial forest boundary. The fire ban is effective immediately.
The fire ban includes any open fires, controlled burns and fireworks within all areas:
- South of Highway #106 from the Manitoba border to Highway #55;
- South of Highway #55 from Highway #106 to Prince Albert;
- East of Highway #2 from Prince Albert to Highway #5; and
- North of Highway #5 to the Manitoba border.
“With hunting season comes more human activity and, as a result, more human-caused fire starts,” SPSA Vice-President of Operations Steve Roberts said. “The SPSA encourages all residents, including hunters, to exercise caution to prevent fire starts and for all municipalities to examine the fire risk in their area.”
There are currently 11 wildfires burning in the province, including several in the area covered by the fire ban. To date, Saskatchewan has had 603 wildfires, which is more than double the five-year average of 298.
The SPSA is responding to several fires in the area near Hudson Bay, with helicopter and ground crews. Smoke from these fires may impact local communities, depending on wind strength and direction. The SPSA is in contact with community leaders and encourages anyone affected by smoke to stay indoors at this time.
Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office.
