BANFF, KOOTENAY AND YOHO NATIONAL PARKS – Parks Canada has announced a fire ban in Banff, Kootenay and Yoho national parks until further notice.
The Friday (Aug. 5) announcement comes one day after the federal agency warned the fire danger in Banff National Park was high.
Woodburning campfires, turkey fryers, tiki torches, outdoor woodburning stoves and charcoal, briquette or wood barbeques are not allowed until the ban is lifted.
The fire ban will include all open fires, with the exception of portable propane fire pits, gas or propane stoves and barbeques designed for cooking and heating, propane or gas fuelled lanterns for an enclosed flame and patio heaters such as propane, catalytic or infrared/radiant.
Parks Canada noted all open fires need to be under direct supervision.
The order, issued under the National Parks of Canada Fire Protection Regulations, will cover all front and backcountry campgrounds in the three national parks.
People violate the ban can be charged under the Canada National Parks Act and face a maximum penalty of $25,000.
