In response to the Government of New Brunswick’s announcement of an extreme wildfire hazard and closure of all Crown land effective 12:01 a.m. Sunday, August 10, the City of Fredericton is taking steps to support wildfire prevention while continuing to provide safe access to municipal amenities.
The Government of New Brunswick’s fire ban prohibits all industrial and recreational activities on Crown land, and residents are strongly encouraged to avoid private woodlots and woods roads. Activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and vehicle use in wooded areas are not permitted. Camping is allowed only in campgrounds, though residents are urged to reconsider their plans until the fire risk decreases.
City of Fredericton Response:
- Restrictions on trail use at Odell and Killarney Lake Park
- All trails at Odell and Killarney Lake Park are closed.
- The closure does not apply to the beach and lake at Killarney Lake.
- All other trails in the City remain open at this time. The Fredericton Fire Department will continue to monitor conditions and adjust as required.
Residents are encouraged to remain active and fire safe through the use of Fredericton’s many other recreational resources.
Fire Ban and Public Information:
- A citywide fire ban remains in place.
- The fire ban also applies to the only private campground in Fredericton (Hartt Island RV Resort).
- The ban does not apply to barbecues or natural gas/propane fire pits, as they do not create flying sparks or embers.
In addition to the Government of New Brunswick’s Fire Watch webpage, Fredericton residents can visit the Emergency Preparedness section of the City’s website to learn about preparing for urban wildfires.
Patrols to Encampments:
- The Fredericton Police Force will continue to visit known encampment areas of those living rough to reinforce the importance of the fire ban.
The Fredericton Fire Department remains at a heightened level of readiness and awareness to respond to reports of smoke or fire in wildland or urban areas.
The City urges everyone to remain vigilant, follow fire safety rules, and stay informed as conditions evolve.
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Media Contact: Justin McGuigan, Emergency Measures Specialist, City of Fredericton, justin.mcguigan@fredericton.ca, 506-470-2270