The province has expanded a ban on all burning that requires permits to include northwest and westerns parts of Manitoba.
The current dry weather has led to a widening of the ban, said officials. On April 19, the province cancelled burning permits for the eastern and central regions of the province.
No new permits for areas under the ban will be issued until weather conditions change to allow for safe burning conditions, said the province.
Open fires are prohibited from April 1 to November 15, except in approved, enclosed fire pits, or under a burning permit.
Many areas around the province remain very dry with fire hazards increasing as the ground dries. Winds can push flames at a quick pace and ignite large areas, said the province.
Anyone with information on brush or forest fires in Manitoba can call toll-free to 1-800-782-0076.
In Winnipeg, city officials announced on April 20 a short-term ban on any burning that requires a permit within city limits. Permits are not necessary for residential backyard fire pits. Property owners should use caution, however, and follow the Neighborhood Livability By-law requirements for fire pits, said officials.
