Grass fire season is upon us.
In the past two weeks, St. Albert firefighters have put out three small blazes in the city.
Although details weren't available on the blazes, Michael Bos, fire prevention officer with Fire and Rescue Services, said there’s usually a main culprit behind the fires.
“Cigarettes are the prime suspect for grass fires in our area,” he said.
Fires are most common in dry, grassy areas next to roads, caused by people throwing lit cigarettes from their windows as they drive by.
Instead, Bos said it's important to safely dispose of cigarettes by putting them out in an ashtray within their vehicle.
Young people playing with matches outside can also start grass fires, he added.
Areas at higher risk for fires include Big Lake and along the Sturgeon River. At this time of year, the two areas are home to tall, dry grass.
Homeowners can also help reduce the risk of a grass fire starting in their backyard. Right now fuzz from poplar trees is floating around, and people are encouraged to clean it up.
“The poplar fuzz that comes out at this time of year, it tends to burn quite well,” he said. “We do recommend that people take care of the poplar fuzz in their yards, just rake it up as it occurs.”
If using a fire pit in the backyard, it’s important to make sure the pit follows city regulations. Also, if it’s warm and windy outside, it may be best to steer clear from having a backyard fire.
While St. Albert doesn’t typically enforce fire bans, Bos said people should be aware where bans are happening across the province.
To see active bans, visit: https://www.albertafirebans.ca/.
