SASKATCHEWAN — The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has lifted the provincial fire ban effective 11 a.m. on June 3, citing improved conditions and recent rainfall that has helped crews gain the upper hand on two major wildfires.
The ban, which prohibited open fires, controlled burns, and fireworks across all Crown land, provincial parks, recreational sites, resort subdivisions, northern settlements and titled and leased properties, has been rescinded. The restriction also covered ATVs and UTVs.
During a SPSA media briefing Wednesday, Joan Hrycyk, director of emergency and community support, confirmed that residents who drove out of affected communities were allowed to start driving home Tuesday night.
“There are buses at the hotels as of 11 o'clock this morning and for Shoal Lake at one o'clock this afternoon, who will be transporting the community members home,” she added.
Bryan Chartrand, executive director of land operations for the SPSA, gave an update on the province’s wildfire situation.
“Provincially we're looking at 11 fires within the province right now,” he said. “We have three that are not contained, five that are contained, two that are still ongoing assessment and one protecting property or values.”
Two larger fires, Lobstick and Cayford, have been the focus of firefighting efforts. The Lobstick fire has seen minimal growth since Sunday, with crews now focused on hot spots. Approximately 13 millimetres of rain fell on that fire overnight, significantly aiding suppression efforts.
The Lobstick fire remains at approximately 19,000 hectares. The Cayford fire is about 13,000 hectares.
Chatrand said a new fire started late Tuesday between Pelican Narrows and South End.
“It’s almost in the middle of those two communities, so no impact to them” he said. “It’s still small and we are putting resources on it.”
The SPSA reminds the public that provincial parks, municipalities and R.M.s may still have their own local fire ban, restriction or advisory in place. A list of fire restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites can be found on the SaskParks website and the SPSA interactive fire ban map.
Municipalities and provincial parks should continue to monitor local conditions and implement fire bans or burning restrictions as required.
Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office.
An interactive map of fire bans in the province, fire ban frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips can all be found on the SPSA website.
