Banff fire west of Vermilion Lakes under control: Parks Canada

A wildfire that started in Banff west of Vermilion Lake Friday is under control, Parks Canada said on its Facebook page. (Photo: Facebook/BanffNationalPark/Dan Rafla)

An investigation is underway into a wildfire that started west of Vermilion Lakes in Banff National Park Saturday, adjacent to the Trans-Canada Highway.

The park posted on Facebook Friday afternoon that crews from the Town of Banff Fire Department and Parks Canada were able to quickly bring the blaze under control.

They said there’s no current threat to public safety, but fire crews remain on scene to extinguish the fire.

Smoke may be visible from the highway and cause reduced visibility in the area.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the fire was human-caused, possibly by the careless tossing of a cigarette.

Parks Canada reminds visitors to properly dispose of cigarettes when hiking, cycling or driving.

Also, illegal fires outside of designated areas can easily get out of control in dry conditions and pose a serious threat. Safe campfires should be started in designated firepits, using locally-sourced firewood. They should also be completely extinguished with water. Never leave a fire unattended.