MOUNTAIN VIEW COUNTY — Effective today (Aug. 11) there is now a complete fire ban in all of Mountain View County.
"This requires that all outdoor fires presently burning be extinguished and the lighting of any outdoor fires is banned," states a notice issued this afternoon from the county.
It notes the only exceptions are internal household fireplaces, barbecues and Alberta Energy Regulator flaring.
Much like the partial fire ban enacted on Wednesday, Aug. 4, the county says the upgraded ban is being put in place in response to current and forecasted weather conditions.
All current fire permits and firework permits are suspended and no new permits will be issued until the ban is lifted.
Mountain View County councillors discussed the situation during today's council meeting, with several questioning why a complete fire ban hadn't been issued considering the "extremely dry conditions."
Area fire department chiefs advise the county on when a ban is recommended and what type of ban should be put in place.
