SPSA issues fire ban for areas north of Yellowhead Highway

As wildfires continue to threaten communities in northern Saskatchewan and with hot and dry conditions in the forecast, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has issued a provincial fire ban for areas north of Highway 16.

The ban, which was issued Tuesday morning, covers Crown lands, provincial parks and the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District. It includes all open fires, controlled burns and fireworks.

“While many people are looking forward to the long weekend, the decision to implement a fire ban is necessary in order to protect lives, communities, major infrastructure and resources from wildfire,” SPSA president and Fire Commissioner Marlo Pritchard said in a release.

The SPSA noted that many municipalities already have fire bans in place, so it encouraged all municipalities to examine the fire risk in their area.

According to the agency, there currently are 28 wildfires burning in the province. To date, Saskatchewan has had more than twice the number of wildfires it usually sees at this time of year.

People can find the latest fire risk maps and municipal fire ban map here.

Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, dial 911 or contact their closest SPSA Response Area office.