Wildfire in La Ronge, Sask., prompts call for regional fire ban

A wildfirein the Town of La Ronge, Sask.,has prompted a push for a regional fire ban.

We had a temperature today of 26 C, and 35 km/h winds. Those are good recipes for fires.- ThomasSierzycki, mayor of La Ronge

On Monday, the La Ronge regional fire department responded to a fire bordering the new Mowery subdivision. The fire originated in a heavily forested area, before spreading to other homes.

Nearby homes were proactive, dousing their lawns just in case the fire spread. Firefighters controlled the firewith the help of a water helicopter.

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La Ronge Mayor Thomas Sierzycki said his town was packed with snowup until about mid-April, but since then they've seenvery hot, dry conditions and gusting winds.

"For example, we had a temperature today of 26 C, and 35 km/h winds. Those are good recipes for fires," Sierzycki said.

Cause under investigation

While the fire was under control by Monday evening, Sierzycki said the investigation has been turned over to the RCMP.

"I don't see this as being an accident, no residents had burning permits for the area so at this time the investigation is ongoing, but again I do stress that parents and community members look out for one another and try and prevent these fires," he said.

The fire promptedthe mayor tosignoff on a fire ban for the town, and he anticipates regional partners will jump aboard for a regional fire ban.

"Once we have confirmation from all three partners, I anticipate a regional fire ban in effect," he said.

"It's not about penalizing residents who are cautious with fires, but unfortunately we have to mitigate the risk of human-caused fires and those are the scary aspect for the community."