Fire pits will need to stay cool in Winnipeg.

Starting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, open fires in Winnipeg will need to cease as conditions dry in the city.

The open-air fire ban includes:

  • open fires
  • backyard fire pits
  • fireworks
  • fire pits in City parks
  • use of solid fuel-burning appliances, including charcoal and wood-burning barbecues

If violated, people are subject to a $500 fine.

"During times of dry and windy weather, outdoor fires can quickly become very dangerous because they can spread rapidly,” Fire Paramedic Chief John Lane says in a statement. “Restricting recreational fires can help stop fires from spreading to nearby structures, which can put lives at risk and can damage property.”

The ban remains in place until further notice.

Propane and gas barbecues and fire tables continued to be allowed, with caution.