| Hot news for residents... The Bragg Creek Fire Smart Committee now has a website at www.rockyview.ca/firesmart. Check out their draft mitigation strategy here.
In a forested area like Bragg Creek, fire is a very serious hazard. About half of the wildfires recorded in Alberta are as a result of human activity (source: Government of Alberta Sustainable Resource Development).
Of course, these fires are 100% preventable, and it’s up to everyone who lives or visits here, to be smart about fire.
Fire Bans
From time to time a fire ban is issued. These operate on several levels, for example, a Level II ban prohibits recreational camp fires but allows camp stoves and liquid fuel barbeques. A full explanation of what each level includes and excludes is available here.
For information about exactly where a ban is operating contact Alberta Fire Bans at their website or by calling 1-866-FYI-FIRE.
When visiting Alberta’s backcountry, please be safe around campfires. Remember, even a small campfire has the potential to become a wildfire.
- Never leave your campfire unattended, even for a few minutes
- Always make sure your campfire is out. Soak it, stir up the ashes and soak it again
- Always have enough water nearby to keep your campfire under control
Fire Permits
Commonly known as a Burn Permit, a Fire Permit is required for any open fire other than a campfire. That’s right, if you want to burn some brush you’ve chopped down in your backyard, you must get a permit.
Fire permits are free and are issued for a specific period of time.
You can get a permit from:
- The Bragg Creek Trading Post at 117 White Avenue, Bragg Creek
- Any Alberta Sustainable Resource Development office. For locations call 310-0000 or click here
- Albertans living outside the Forest Protection Area can contact their local municipality for information about local fire permit requirements.
FireSmart
FireSmart is a Government of Alberta initiative to help protect homes and communities from the threat of wildfire. Using fire-resistant materials on buildings and following simple landscaping practices will help create a FireSmart community. Tips and information can be found here. This link also takes you to a handy assessment for the home owner, as well as a manual and videos.
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