Winnipeg, MB – Effective today, Wednesday, July 28 2021 at 6 p.m., the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) has extended the previously-declared fire ban for the city of Winnipeg, until Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at 6 p.m., due to current and forecasted dry conditions.
This ban prohibits all residents from engaging in the following activities, even if a permit has previously been issued:
- Open fires
- Backyard fire pits
- Fireworks
- Fire pits in City parks
- Use of solid fuel-burning appliances, including charcoal and wood-burning barbecues.
Propane and gas barbecues, fire tables, and household smokers and barbecues that use pellets are permitted and should be used with caution.
Existing permits are suspended, and no new permits will be issued for the duration of the fire ban. Violations of this ban are subject to a $500 fine under the Neighbourhood Liveability By-law.
Residents are reminded to call 911 if they see a fire. To report restricted activities during a fire ban, residents are asked to contact 311.
More information is available at winnipeg.ca/firebans.
Wildland and grass fire prevention
Conditions in Winnipeg are extremely dry and there is little precipitation in the forecast. Residents must exercise caution to prevent wildland and grass fires. Burning yard waste, garbage, or scrap material is prohibited within city limits and can result in a fine.
It is also important that residents never dispose of smoking materials in any sort of vegetation or from vehicle windows. Butts should also never be put out in planter pots.
To protect businesses and homes from grass and brush fires, proper landscaping and vegetation management are important, particularly when conditions are dry. This includes thinning and pruning vegetation, removing trees and converting to fire-resistant plants, and general cleanup of brush, leaves, grass, and debris. Watering plants and vegetation in the area surrounding your home is also important, particularly in the first 10 meters around the home.
Other strategies include storing firewood at least 10 meters away from structures, and ensuring approved outdoor fire receptacles are in an open area away from overhanging vegetation.