Lacombe County issues fire advisory amid warm, windy conditions

Lacombe County has issued a fire advisory effective at noon Friday, Nov. 13, 2026, due to warm temperatures, windy conditions and little to no precipitation expected in the coming days.

Under the advisory, all large-scale fires greater than 500 cubic feet currently in progress must be extinguished until conditions improve. Residents are also required to check previously completed burns to ensure they are fully extinguished, as fires can smoulder beneath the surface and reignite when conditions deteriorate.

A fire advisory indicates an increased fire danger rating, but safe campfires and certain other burning activities remain permitted.

Activities allowed during the fire advisory include:

• Minor burns of less than 500 cubic feet

• Recreational fires

• Portable propane fire pits

• Gas or propane stoves and barbecues

• Catalytic or infrared-style heaters

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Recreational fires, including those at campgrounds, on private property and in backyards, must be contained within a metal, brick or rock fire ring and comply with Lacombe County's Fire Bylaw.

A minimum clearance of 3.3 metres (10 feet) must be maintained from buildings, property lines and combustible materials. Fires must be placed on a non-combustible surface, such as rock, gravel or sand, extending at least one metre around the fire.

Only approved fuels, including wood, charcoal, briquettes, manufactured fire logs, fireplace pellets, propane or natural gas, may be used.

A responsible person must attend the fire at all times, adequate water must be available to extinguish it, and the fire must be completely extinguished before leaving.

Fire safety reminders

Lacombe County is reminding residents that off-highway vehicles can start wildfires. Operators should frequently check for debris around potential hotspots and ensure mufflers and spark arrestors are functioning properly.

Campfires should never be left unattended. Residents are advised to soak the fire, stir the ashes and soak them again until everything is cool to the touch.

Cigarette butts must also be disposed of safely because dry grass and brush can ignite easily.

The advisory may be upgraded to a fire restriction or fire ban at any time and will remain in effect until conditions improve.

Residents can monitor fire advisories, restrictions and bans at www.albertafirebans.ca or visit www.lacombecounty.com for local updates.

Lacombe County also encourages residents, businesses and visitors to register for its Voyent Alert! notification system, which provides information about fire restrictions, severe weather, road disruptions, water advisories and other community emergencies.

Registration is available at www.lacombecounty.com/alert.