Skip to content

Town issues water, fire bans

A fire ban and water ban is in effect for the Town of Okotoks due to sustained dry conditions through July. The Town issued a fire ban effective at 5:30 p.m. on July 27 and a water ban effective at 1 p.m. on July 28.

A fire ban and water ban is in effect for the Town of Okotoks due to sustained dry conditions through July.

The Town issued a fire ban effective at 5:30 p.m. on July 27 and a water ban effective at 1 p.m. on July 28. Both bans will remain in effect until substantial rainfall occurs and conditions improve.

During a fire ban, no campfires or other open fires or burning barrels are permitted in campgrounds or backyards, and charcoal briquettes and outdoor torches are also prohibited. Gas or propane stoves or barbecues and portable propane fire pits are allowed.

All fire permits previously issued are suspended or cancelled, and no new fire permits will be issued.

Residents are also asked to ensure cigarette butts and other smoking materials are extinguished properly and contained.

A water ban is also in effect, which prohibits the use of sprinklers for any use, including recreational; washing driveways, homes or vehicles; watering established lawns, trees or shrubs; and filling hot tubs or swimming pools. Hand watering is still permitted for flower beds, vegetable gardens or new trees and shrubs only. The bulk water supply at the Ooktoks Operations Centre is also closed.

Demand for water in town due to hot weather was the cause of the ban, as the watering schedule has not reduced consumption sufficiently enough to replenish water reservoirs throughout the week.

The spray park and Okotoks Recreation Centre will remain open for the public to enjoy its facilities and cool off during hot temperatures forecasted for the week ahead.

The bans are also in effect for newly annexed properties. Failure to comply with the fire ban or the water ban could result in enforcement and fines.

For more information on either ban visit www.okotoks.ca.

Fire logo
push icon
Be the first to read breaking stories. Enable push notifications on your device. Disable anytime.
No thanks