Ponoka residents are encouraged to use extreme caution when using bylaw-compliant fire pits with a mesh screen, burning barrels (permitted in the industrial park only), gas and liquid-powered appliances such as stoves, lanterns and propane fire rings, and barbecues and smokers using propane or charcoal briquettes.
Fire pit users should never leave a fire unattended, as conditions can change in seconds. Always be aware of the weather and completely extinguish flames and hot embers when finished.
All fire pits within the Town of Ponoka must meet the following requirements: be at least three metres from buildings, property lines, or anything that could catch fire; be no more than 0.6 metres (two feet) high and no more than one metre (three feet) wide; have fully enclosed sides made of bricks, concrete blocks, heavy-gauge metal or other non-combustible materials; have a non-combustible mesh screen covering the top with openings no larger than 1.25 centimetres to stop sparks from escaping; and have a water hose, fire extinguisher or other acceptable means of controlling a fire nearby.
When using a fire pit, only clean firewood should be burned. Yard waste such as cut grass, leaves or branches, and garbage must not be burned.
Residents can stay up to date on fire advisories, restrictions and bans across Alberta, including for the Town of Ponoka, at www.albertafirebans.ca.
