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By Omran Wahidy

Cypress County eying conditions with extreme fire rating

Aug 1, 2023 | 5:15 PM

DUNMORE, AB – Cypress County and much of southern Alberta are under fire bans due to the extreme heat this summer. The long duration of heat mixed with the lack of moisture in the air is a recipe for disaster.

Cypress County currently has an extreme fire rating and a fire ban is in place. Alberta Parks has put a fire ban in place for Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

The county’s emergency services coordinator and fire chief Jason Linton says there have been fewer man-made fires this year but the conditions are perfect for creating them, making it crucial for citizens to be cognizant of this time.

“Things like cigarette butts out the window which is super avoidable. Check your chains on your towing equipment, so if you’re towing a camper or a boat or any kind of equipment, make sure your chains aren’t dragging along the pavement. All those small things can help us reduce those fire risks,” says Linton.

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Heat is nothing new to the region, but the fire department is on high alert with the increased risk of flames.

“Long durations of extreme heat, the winds, the lack of moisture. We’re in extreme conditions right now, this is probably the worst we have seen it in a long time actually,” says Linton. He also said that the public has been very aware of the situation and has done a good job of preventing fires.

Linton says those who are caught throwing cigarette butts outside that cause a fire, will be subject to an RCMP investigation.