Fire pit use still banned in Medicine Hat

By Brian Konrad

Fire ban remains in effect

City fire crews responding to increased calls regarding backyard fire pits

Aug 11, 2021 | 10:57 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The city of Medicine Hat has been under a fire ban for most of this hot and dry summer.

However, recent rains have led some to believe it’s OK for them to have a fire in their backyard fire pit again.

Fire marshal Scott Hanelt of Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services says crews have been responding to many calls in recent evenings concerning backyard fire pits.

“There are some people that are choosing to ignore the ban, or maybe don’t realize there is a ban in place”, says Hanelt.

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Hanelt says they’re also getting calls about people using their fire pits for burning yard waste, which is not allowed at any time.

Much of the time, people put out the fire when requested, but Hanelt says fire crews will contact bylaw and police to obtain compliance if necessary.

The fire ban for Medicine Hat has been in place since June 28 and includes residences and all city parks.

No open burning, including wood burning fire pits, or charcoal BBQ’s are allowed until further notice.