The Banff Fire Department has issued a fire ban for the Town of Banff, in coordination with Parks Canada implementing a fire ban for Banff, Yoho and Kootenay national parks due to elevated fire danger. A fire ban also exists in Lake Louise.
The fire hazard conditions are categorized as extreme.
There have been several days of hot, dry weather, creating drought-like conditions. Very dry ground cover, grasses, branches, foliage and logs make the area very susceptible to rapidly spreading fire. The conditions make wind gusts possible, and significant rain is not forecasted. Fire bans are based on the local fire danger, current and forecasted weather conditions, the amount of moisture in vegetation, the regional wildfire situation and the availability of responders and equipment.
The fire ban helps ensure safety for people and for the protection of buildings and property in the townsite.
All outdoor fires, including campfires, are prohibited until further notice.
Report any wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Banff Dispatch 403.762.4506.
This fire ban includes all open fires and prohibits until further notice the use of the following items:
- Campfire (No wood or briquette fires)
- Charcoal or briquette barbecues
- Indoor and outdoor wood burning stove
- Turkey fryers
- Tiki torches
This fire ban allows (under direct supervision, and devices certified by the Canadian Standards Association or Underwriters Laboratories):
- portable propane fire pits
- gas or propane stoves and barbeques designed for cooking or heating
- propane or gas fuelled lanterns (enclosed flame)
- patio heaters (propane, catalytic or infrared/radiant)
The fire ban restriction will be lifted as soon as conditions permit.
For further information:
Be prepared for evacuation in Banff: banff.ca/emergency
Check updates: banff.ca/CivicAlerts
Banff National Park fire ban: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/banff/nature/conservation/feu-fire/interdit-ban
Town Fire Department: 403.762.1256
Banff National Park Dispatch: 403.762.4506.
Emergency: 911