By rdnewsNOW Staff

Very Dry Winter

City residents reminded to practice safe fire pit use

Mar 26, 2021 | 11:55 AM

With the arrival of warmer weather and many Red Deerians heading outdoors to enjoy it, officials with the City of Red Deer are reminding residents of backyard fire pit safety.

The City of Red Deer would like to take this opportunity to inform residents that this past winter, Red Deer experienced its driest winter in 99 years. As such, citizens are asked to take extra care when enjoying a backyard fire this year.

Requirements for safe fire pit use include:

• Distance your fire pit a minimum of three meters from buildings, property lines, trees, overhead power lines, combustible fences or other combustible materials
• Ensure your fire pit has enclosed sides made from non-combustible materials (i.e. brick, metal)
• Ensure your flame area does not exceed one meter at its widest point or one meter in height
• Ensure your fire does not create a nuisance to any other person
• Ensure your fire does not create a risk of damage to people or property

Red Deer Emergency Services also has the following tips for safe fire pit use:

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• Always check if a Fire Ban is in effect before starting a backyard fire. Fire ban notifications will be listed on The City’s homepage (www.reddeer.ca).
• Burn only untreated wood or charcoal (no yard waste)
• Always remain in charge of your fire
• Always have a means of extinguishing you fire quickly
• Ensure the fire is completely extinguished, leaving only cold ashes, before leaving the fire pit unsupervised.

For more information, please visit https://www.reddeer.ca/city-services/ambulance-fire-and-emergencies/fire-prevention-information/fire-pits/

Additionally, residents are reminded to follow current public health measures when hosting and attending backyard gatherings. Outdoor social gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people and must not have an indoor component. Attendees should remain socially distanced at all times.

For more information on current health measures, please visit https://www.alberta.ca/covid-19-orders-and-legislation.aspx