Parks Canada is encouraging all visitors to be aware of fire risk and backcountry wildfires in advance of August long weekend travel

Alberta and British Columbia national parks remain open but some backcountry areas are closed to visitors and traffic disruptions may occur.

OTTAWA, Aug. 2, 2017 /CNW/ - As people prepare to travel this August long weekend, Parks Canada is reminding visitors to national parks in Alberta and British Columbia of fire risk and fire bans. Parks Canada also encourages all visitors to check for the most up-to-date information on backcountry wildfires if they are travelling to or in the region.

Like many areas in British Columbia and Alberta, national parks are experiencing hot and dry weather conditions. Fire danger is extreme and fire bans are currently in place at the majority of national parks in these two provinces.

Parks Canada is managing backcountry wildfires in Glacier, Kootenay and Banff national parks. These national parks are open to visitors, but some backcountry restrictions and closures are in place. Also, wildfires and resulting smoke may impact road conditions and transportation corridors. Motorists should be prepared for reduced visibility due to smoke and should anticipate possible delays or temporary road closures.

Fire and weather conditions can change quickly and the public is encouraged to check before heading to or travelling through national parks in British Columbia and Alberta. For the most up-to-date information on wildfires and closures in individual national parks visit www.pc.gc.ca/fire-alerts. Motorists are also encouraged to check provincial highway information at DriveBC and Alberta511.

Smoke from wildfires may also impact air quality. This may be a consideration for some visitors or for those with respiratory concerns. For smoke and air quality alerts visit Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Visitors are also asked to report any new wildfires as well as illegal campfires to Parks Canada at 877-852-3100.

The safety of the public and the enjoyment of Canada's national heritage places is a top priority for Parks Canada. The Agency is a wold leader in fire management and is taking every measure possible to prevent and reduce the risks that wildfires may present for visitors, staff, infrastructure and natural and cultural resources. Parks Canada subscribes to the national emergency standards set by the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre and is equipped to respond to emergencies should they arise.

Please be sure to monitor the www.pc.gc.ca, the Parks Canada Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ParksCanada), and the Parks Canada Twitter feed (@parkscanada) for regular information updates.

SOURCE Parks Canada

Media Relations, Parks Canada Agency, 855-862-1812, [email protected]