Cypress County in fire advisory, with public education event on weekend

“This year so far we haven’t had any wildfires we’ve responded to, other counties around us have,” Linton said.

“It is drying up and we’re seeing the forecast where it’s gonna get warm so we’re gonna be in a great perfect mixture for potential wildfires,” he added.

“We just want to get ahead of it and be proactive with putting a fire advisory on, just maybe a less chance of having a fire.”

Linton said Thursday was the last day for the active fire permits that were issued, with no new fire permits being issued at this time, however recreational fires and burn barrels are still still allowed at this time.

Over the course of a typical year he says the county see about 40 to 50 wildfires.

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READ: Cypress County fire advisory date no longer guaranteed by end of March

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Cypress County will be hosting Firesmart Day in Elkwater on Saturday.

Linton said there are two parts to the fire smart program, the Cypress County emergency services wildfire program and in conjunction with Alberta Wildfire and Parks, a fire smarting education during the national Firesmart Day.

“You know the number one way to prevent wildfires is education and outreach,” Linton said.

“Obviously we’ve had some big fires over the last couple years,” he added.

“Fire smarting is really taking off and you know us in Cypress County are very proactive and supported by the fire smart program.”

Firesmart Day runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Elkwater Community Hall with a barbeque happening from 11 a.m to 1 p.m.

Residents around Cypress County are encouraged to come learn about fire smarting, and to make their rural addresses or properties fire smart.

Staff will be onsite to answer questions and provide information and brochures.

by Jesse Gill

Cypress County in fire advisory, with public education event on weekend

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