If sitting around the backyard fire pit was on your list of fun things to do this September long weekend, you're in luck.

Lt. Jeff Avery, Fire Prevention Officer with Cochrane Fire Services says thanks to Mother Nature the fire ban issued on August 10th has been downgraded to an advisory as of 9 yesterday morning (August 28). "With the temperatures dropping to four degrees in the evening and the fact that we are getting a little of that dew moisture, we were able to lift the fire ban and go to an advisory. We also get the Alberta Wildland Report sent to us every day and the conditions are getting better."

Even though open fires are allowed under the advisory, Avery states residents still need to be extremely careful. "We are asking people to be extra cautious even if you do have a backyard fire. We aren't getting the kind of moisture we really want but at least we are getting some overnight and the cooler temperatures are definitely helping as well."

Soaking the area with water after the fire is out is always encouraged, shares Avery, along with some other pointers. "If you are leaving the fire, have it cool to the touch. Water it down really, really well when you are done and have water readily available just in case you do see sparks fly out; just be ready for the worst."

When bans are instigated the intent is never to take away people's personal fun, says Avery. "We have to do whatever is best for the community and if that means having a fire ban then so be it."

Avery did share the department was extremely pleased with how compliant the Cochrane community was during the ban and is thankful so many took the ban seriously. "The town residents were excellent! We did not go to a single burning complaint so we definitely want to thank the residents of the town and I think they knew the dangers of having a fire. With all the smoke in the area, I think that really hit home as well, that there's a lot of fires burning out of control right now and even though those are in the forest it can easily take off here as well. So everyone took the fire ban very seriously, we didn't go to a single call, and that is awesome."

The Fire Advisory will remain in effect as long as the Fire Chief’s Office deems appropriate and we will upgrade any status changes when the time comes.

If you are headed out camping or visiting communities in other parts of Alberta it is advised to check the fire ban/advisory status HERE before you decide to light any fire.

Rocky View County at this time remains under a fire ban.