May 1st, 2025 Update
Manitoba Conservation has cancelled all burn permits in the Wooded District, and the RM of Grahamdale has cancelled all permits across the municipality.
There’s also a travel ban for off-road vehicles in the Wooded District—ATV riders now need a permit from Conservation.
Locally, that includes everything north of the Fairford River and east of PTH 6 between the Fairford River and Joiner Road.
Fire protection in the RM of Grahamdale is provided by a dedicated team of volunteer firefighters. They respond to fires, accidents, and emergencies across the area, working hard to keep our communities safe. We're proud of their commitment and always welcome new volunteers—contact the RM office to learn more.
Burn Permits
Doing some burning? You’ll need a permit for open fires like crop, grass, or brush pile burns.
Campfires in a proper firepit or burn barrel don’t need a permit—just make sure they’re safe and never left unattended!
Stop by the RM office in Moosehorn to get your permit.
When burning with a permit, you must:
Keep the fire under control at all times
Take responsibility for any property damage
Set up fireguards as required
Have a pack can and any needed equipment on hand (you can borrow gear from a fire guardian or Councillor)
Only start fires after 5 p.m.
MUNICIPAL BURN BANS
The municipality may put a burn ban in place when conditions are extremely dry and the risk of wildfires is high. Windy days and a rise in fire calls can also lead to a ban. It’s all about keeping people, homes, and the community safe.
Burn bans will be shared on our website and the Facebook page. Bans can cover things like fireworks, fire pits, bonfires, and ATV use. You can usually still use propane or gas-fueled gear like BBQs and patio heaters—unless the ban says otherwise.
You can view a map of all the current municipal burn restrictions and bans in the Province here - Municipal Burn Restrictions Map. Please also familiarize yourself with the RM's Burning By-Law to learn what you can and cannot burn and in what areas.
To Report a Wildfire
1-800-782-0076 (toll-free)
*this is to report a fire not for local information
As the climate changes, wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe. Warmer, drier weather from May to September means longer, more intense fire seasons. Even rural communities feel the effects, especially from smoke that reduces air quality.
If there’s an air quality advisory for your area:
- Stay inside when you can and skip outdoor workouts.
- Keep car windows up and set the air to recirculate.
- Check air quality reports—don’t just go by how it looks.
- An air purifier can really help clean the air in your home.
Plan Ahead for Any Emergency With These Essential Items
You can protect members of your household and your property by learning more about wildfires and by taking proper precautions. Make sure that your household has prepared an:
- Emergency Plan
- Emergency Kit or bag with essential items in case you need to leave your home immediately or an evacuation is required
How do Wildfires Start?
Most wildfires in Canada are started by lightning in remote areas, accounting for about 80% of the total area burned. Fires caused by people usually happen closer to towns and get put out faster—but they’re still a big risk. That’s why it’s so important to follow fire bans and be extra careful when things are dry.
How to Prevent an Out-of-Control Fire or Wildfire
- If you spot an out-of-control or unattended fire, call 911 right away. To report a wildfire, you can also call 1-800-782-0076 (toll-free).
- Never leave a fire unattended—soak it with water and stir until the ashes are cold.
- Use fuel lanterns, stoves, and heaters with care. Let them cool before refueling, avoid spills, and keep fuel stored away from anything hot.
- Fully put out cigarettes and don’t toss them or matches on the ground or from vehicles.
- Follow local by-laws when burning. Avoid any burning on windy days, and always have water and a shovel close by. Clear out any flammable materials from your yard before you start.
ASBESTOS AND NATURAL DISASTERS
Natural disasters like wildfires, floods, and tornadoes can damage materials with asbestos, putting first responders and locals at risk. Learn how to stay safe and avoid asbestos exposure during cleanup.
Check out this guide to learn more about the topics below as well as other safety tips and information on Wildfire Safety.
- How is Asbestos a Risk During a Natural Disaster
- What to Do During Wildfires
- How to Prevent Asbestos Exposure from Other Disasters
Another great source of information is this Homeowners Guide to Asbestos.
WILDFIRES AND FIRE SAFETY 
FireSmart starts at home. You can lower the risk of wildfire damage by implementing FireSmart recommendations on using the right building materials and managing trees, shrubs, and grass around your property. Cleaning up, thinning, and spacing things out makes a big difference.
Check out www.FireSmartCanada.ca for more on protecting your community from wildfires and the FireSmart Community Program. More helpful resources are listed below.
- FireSmart Begins at Home Guide
How to lower wildfire risk around your home and yard - Homeowners Assessment Guide
Assessing what changes can best lower your wildfire risk - FireSmart Landscape Brochure
Tips for fire-safe landscaping and choosing fire-resistant plants - Wildfire Safety - Fire and Travel Restrictions
Information on fire and travel restrictions implemented by the Province - Wildfire Evacuation Brochure
Updates on fire bans and travel restrictions from the Province.
More resourceful information can be found in the section below.
CURRENT WILDFIRE INFORMATION
CURRENT WILDFIRE WEATHER INFORMATION
- Fire Weather Calculations/Codes
- Observed Precipitation Map (last 24 hours)
HEALTH EFFECTS OF SMOKE EXPOSURE DUE TO WILDLAND FIRES