All this heat and no rain in the forecast could be a bad combination for potential grass fires.

MD of Willow Creek CAO Cynthia Vizzutti said there is a full fire ban in place and is warning people to be extra careful.

"In the 22 years I have been in Claresholm and working for the MD of Willow Creek I have never seen it this dry," said Vizzutti. "It is absolutely dangerous out there. The main thing is throwing smoking materials out of vehicles. Please don't drive through the MD of Willow Creek and throw your cigarette out. Don't drive anywhere and throw your cigarette out."

Firefighters battled a blaze west of Claresholm on July 26th that they managed to get under control.  The cause is unknown.

She added everyone is keeping their water tanks, trucks and equipment ready to go in case another fire breaks out.

"Many firefighters and neighbours with water wagons have responded so it is under control. Of course, our ranchers and farmers are really excellent at keeping water tankers and water in their fields and water around on their property. This is one of the worst (dry conditions) we have ever seen."

With no rain in the forecast she says we just have to hunker down and pray for rain.

"And hope that we are able to dodge anything that can cause a fire. And the big issue is please people don't throw your cigarettes out of your moving vehicle."

 

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