Dry weather in Manitoba has caused fire bans around the province. While the bans are all slightly different, the message is the same; don't burn irresponsibly. 

Inside Winnipeg

Absolutely all open-air fires are prohibited due to the extremely dry conditions. This includes backyard and City park firepits, even if they are covered. This also includes a full ban on fireworks.

Deputy Chief Tom Wallace says that the only acceptable fire at this time inside Winnipeg is an outdoor natural gas appliance such as a barbecue. He is urging residents to "not start an open-air fire as dry conditions and winds increase the risk of wildland fires."

Since Friday, there have been nine significant wildland fire events inside Winnipeg city limits.

Outside Winnipeg

Most municipalities in southern Manitoba, including the area around Steinbach, Winkler, Morden, and Selkirk, are under full burn restrictions. Rural municipalities such as Hanover (Steinbach) updated their ban to include all approved fire pits. This means all campfires are currently banned since grass is currently considered combustible.

Burn permits issued to farmers for controlled burns will also be cancelled starting May 11. No burn permits are currently being issued.

Provincial Parks

Further travel restrictions have been issued for a number of Manitoba parks. Most provincial parks in southeastern, central, and western Manitoba require a permit for backcountry travel or may be limited. These include Spruce Woods Provincial Forest, Duck Mountain Provincial Forest, and Mars Hill Wildlife Management Area.

Campfire restrictions are also in effect for all southern Manitoba provincial parks. Fires will only be allowed in approved fire pits between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.

If you spot a wildfire, immediately call 911. Check the provincial and city website for more information regarding the burn ban before you do anything related to fire.