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A sweeping fire ban — the largest in the territory’s history — has been extended for at least another week in the N.W.T. as firefighters battle multiple blazes in the region.
The ban covers more than a dozen communities through the North Slave and South Slave regions.
It means there’s a total prohibition on open fires, even in barrels or pits, and that all burn permits are cancelled. Fireworks, firecrackers, exploding targets, flare-style bear bangers (unless used in an emergency) are also prohibited.
Propane, gas or briquette barbecues are allowed.
The fire ban was first imposed two weeks ago for the entire South Slave region, and last week it was expanded to include the North Slave.
Friday was expected to be challenging day for firefighters focused on the Behchokǫ̀ fire, with strong winds from the northwest expected to push the fire up to 10 kilometres to the south and east.
As of Friday morning, the fire was about 42 kilometres northwest of Yellowknife. Fire officials said the city is not currently under threat.
Cabins and homes along Highway 3 toward Yellowknife were potentially threatened. An evacuation alert was issued on Thursday for cabin and homeowners between kilometres 284 and 306, a section that includes Boundary Creek.
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