Calgary lifts fire ban as air quality improves

The fire ban has been lifted in Calgary.

The Calgary Fire Department says the ban, initiated on July 16for health and safety reasons, is being removed due to improved air quality in the city.

Calgarians, however,are urged to be cautious with open flames and with smoking materials.

"Calgary has seen higher than normal temperatures this summer, leading to drier conditions, and fire crews continue to respond to outdoor fires created by the improper disposal of smoking materials in planter pots and flower beds," said spokesperson Carol Henke in a news release.

"These fires can smoulder for hours and lead to devastating and potentially deadly fires."

The fire department also urged Calgarians to check out bylaws related to outdoor fire pits within the city at calgary.ca/firepits.