As the Yukon swelters under a late-season heatwave, the entire territory is now under fire restrictions.

Yukon Wildland Fire Management has put a level 2 fire restriction in place across the territory. Starting today, cooking and warming fires are only permitted in the provided fire pits and stoves at road-accessible territorial and commercial campgrounds. All other fire use is suspended.

“This is the second level in the Yukon’s three-tiered fire restriction system,” spokeswoman Haley Ritchie said in a news release.

“Fire use within Dawson City and the City of Whitehorse is determined by those municipalities. Fire in national parks is managed by Parks Canada.

“Personal fire use is being restricted because there is high fire danger caused by hot and dry weather,” Ritchie added. 

“Fire crews are faced with fire response operations that could be compromised by preventable human-caused wildfires. Under these conditions, fires can start easily, spread rapidly and challenge fire response efforts.”

Yukoners can help fire crews by being responsible with fires allowed under this ban:

• Avoid building a fire in windy conditions.
• Do not build a fire larger than what you need.
• Always have an eye on your fire and keep water nearby.
• Ensure all fires are completely out before leaving them. Soak them with water, stir them and repeat until the ashes are cold to the touch.

Yukoners should also be aware of other activities that could produce sparks or heat that could generate wildfires. 

Avoid operating any motorized vehicle in tall grass and vegetation when the weather is hot and dry. Never throw smoking materials from vehicles and be responsible when engaging in target shooting.

In July 2023, a serious fire in the Ibex Valley west of Whitehorse was started by two target shooters using exploding targets. Evacuation alerts were issued to nearby property owners and an investigation ensued, but no charges were laid against those responsible.

Parks Canada has also set a fire ban for Kluane National Park.

“Effective immediately, starting or maintaining open fires is prohibited in Kluane National Park and Reserve, except in permanent fire rings at the Kathleen Lake Campground and the Kathleen Lake Day Use Area,” officials said. “This fire ban is due to a very high risk of fire in the area.

“Self-contained barbecues, hibachis, and portable gas stoves are still allowed for cooking throughout the national park and reserve. Visitors are asked to exercise extra caution in the use of personal cookstoves and the disposal of cigarettes.”

Yukon Wildland Fire Management has postponed a prescribed burn it had planned this week for the Mary Lake area.