A grass fire outside North Side on April 30. Photo courtesy Facebook, Lakeland & District Fire Department.
Saskatchewan is already ahead of last year when it comes to the number of wildfires reported across the province.
According to the Provincial Wildfire Centre in Prince Albert, there are 12 wildfires burning in the province on Monday.
The total number of fires reported so far this year is 96, compared to 75 last year on this date.
The Canadian Wildland Fire Information System map indicates most of central and northern Saskatchewan is now at high risk or extreme risk for fire activity.
The weather is expected to be warm and dry this week, with variable winds.
The statistics come at the start of a week where fire bans are in place in many Central Saskatchewan regions. This includes Weyakwin, the Lakeland District, Prince Albert’s Little Red Park, Corman Park, and RM of Paddockwood.
Meanwhile, the Red Cross has scheduled the launch of its new app to help people prepare for emergencies, to coincide with Emergency Preparedness Week.
The Red Cross Be Ready app gives users information to prepare for different emergency situations and to take action when a disaster strikes.
The app includes live weather feeds and interactive learning tools on how to prepare homes and families.
Red Cross officials say most Canadians believe they know what to do in an emergency, but fewer than half have an emergency supply kit or an alternative source of water.
The Be Ready app is available on iOS and Android devices.