Frequently Asked Questions
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While every effort is made to ensure the timeliness and accuracy of the information available on this website (including revisions and updates), it is provided solely for general public information purposes. In case of discrepancy between website content and relevant municipal by-laws and/or provincial legislation and regulation, site users should be guided by official versions of by-laws and legislation.
Please Note: Questions related to Fire Prevention and Safety in and around the home are addressed on our Fire and Life Safety Topics page.
Does the fire department conduct fire safety inspections of buildings?
Does the fire department inspect wood stove or fireplace installations?
When and where is a burning permit under the Wildfires Act required?
Are fires on farmland for agricultural purposes considered outdoor fires?
Is a small, backyard campfire at my cottage considered an outdoor fire?
Does the fire department issue burning permits?
Are there times when absolutely no outdoor fires are permitted?
Are penalties for letting a fire get out of control severe?
Should I report trees touching power lines to the fire department?
How do I go about applying to join the fire department?
Answers
Does the fire department conduct fire safety inspections of buildings?
The Fires Prevention and Emergency Response Act of 2006 requires that local authorities such as rural municipalities ensure that fire safety inspections of buildings prescribed by regulation within their boundaries are conducted on a regular basis. As of this writing, the regulation had not yet been published, nor have the rural municipalities designated who is to carry out inspections in their jurisdictions. We can only recommend, therefore, that building owners contact the appropriate municipal office for further information. A link to the Fires Prevention Act can be found on our Links page.
Return to List of Questions.
Does the fire department inspect wood stove or fireplace installations?
No; the fire department does not inspect solid fuel heating appliances such as wood stoves and fireplaces. Homeowners are advised to contact their home insurance providers before installing any wood-burning appliance as their policy will likely be affected. Also, it is recommended that wood stoves and fireplaces be checked regularly by a certified inspector. For further information regarding the installation and inspection of wood-burning appliances, contact Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. toll-free at 1-888-358-9388, or visit their website where you can search for the names of local WETT-certified inspectors and installers: www.wettinc.ca
When and where is a burning permit required under the Wildfires Act?
A burning permit is required if you intend to start an outdoor fire in a burning permit area during the wildfire season. If you intend to start an outdoor fire within most of the Response Area of East Beaches Fire & Rescue, then you are in a burning permit area. The wildfire season commences on April 1 and ends on November 15, or "any other period of time that may be designated by the minister." Check with your local Manitoba Conservation Office for current information. A link to the Wildfires Act can be found on our Links page.
Are fires on farmland for agricultural purposes considered outdoor fires?
Yes; fires started in order to clear land, burn debris, crops, or stubble are considered outdoor fires. Check with your local Manitoba Conservation Office for additional information regarding outdoor fires for agricultural purposes and the required permit.
Is a small, backyard campfire at my cottage considered an outdoor fire?
No; a fire that is started in, and remains contained within, a container or fire pit that is approved by an officer is not included in the definition of an outdoor fire under the Wildfires Act. Both the R.M. of Alexander and the R.M. of St. Clements now have by-laws governing 'fire pits' and other 'outdoor fires.' Common sense and your compliance with the applicable by-law will help ensure your safe enjoyment of your backyard campfire. Links to the by-laws are provided below, or you can contact your municipal office for further information.
Alexander: Fire Pit By-Law 05-10
St. Clements: Burning By-Law 5-2012
Does the fire department issue burning permits?
No; burning permits are only issued by Manitoba Conservation. See the Government of Manitoba section in your telephone directory for the nearest Manitoba Conservation Office.
Are there times when absolutely no outdoor fires are permitted?
Yes; the Wildfires Act states that when weather conditions are conducive to a fire burning out of control, no person shall start a fire on any land.
Are penalties for letting a fire get out of control severe?
Yes, they can be; the Wildfires Act provides that a person is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to $10,000, or imprisonment for up to one year, or both! Additionally, the court may order the convicted person to reimburse the province or municipality for the costs incurred in firefighting efforts. The convicted person may also face civil action brought by other persons for damages to their properties resulting from the fire.
Should I report trees touching power lines to the fire department?
If there is clear evidence of fire, and especially if fire is seen to be spreading, then phone 9-1-1 and the fire department will respond. The fire department will keep the area safe until the arrival of Manitoba Hydro personnel, but the fire department itself is neither trained nor equipped to handle live power lines. The fire department in no way wishes to dissuade people from reporting dangerous conditions, but residents should be mindful that the unnecessary dispatch of fire personnel represents a considerable expense to municipal ratepayers. When an emergency response is not required, trees and branches contacting power lines should be reported directly to Manitoba Hydro by phoning 1-888-MB-HYDRO (1-888-624-9376). Remember, if you see any damaged power lines or poles, stay clear, warn others, and report the condition to Manitoba Hydro.
How do I go about applying to join the fire department?
From time to time the fire department has openings for new recruits. If you're interested in applying, contact us, and we will be happy to provide you with the necessary information. The basic requirements are that you be at least 18 years old, physically fit, a year-round resident living within our response area, able to obtain a class 4 driver's license with air brake endorsement, and are able to cope with the stresses of the job.