Story Type: Announcement

A color-coded map shows areas in red, orange, and yellow, with several location markers and warning icons near Lethbridge. The left side features terrain detail and a label for Fernie.

Fire ban and restrictions in effect across southwestern Alberta

Written on July 31, 2026. Posted in RCMP & Public Safety, Weather.

Dry conditions and rising fire danger have prompted new fire restrictions across the region.

A fire ban is now in effect for the Town of Pincher Creek, the Village of Cowley, Piikani Nation and the Municipal District of Pincher Creek.

The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass has moved from a Fire Advisory to a Fire Restriction, and Waterton Lakes National Park is under its own fire restriction as well.

Pincher Creek, Cowley, Piikani Nation and MD of Pincher Creek — Fire Ban

Under the ban:

No new debris or fire pit permits will be issued.
Existing debris permits are cancelled.
Existing and new recreational fire pit and burn barrel permits are suspended until conditions improve.
Fireworks are prohibited.
All open fire is prohibited.
Propane barbecues and fire pits are still permitted.

People are asked to use caution with off-highway vehicles.

The ban will remain in effect until conditions improve. For more information, call 403-627-5333.

Get Stuff’d meat and seafood shop sign, located at 214 13th St. in Fort Macleod, open Thursday through Saturday from 12 noon to 6 p.m., phone 368-996-1968, follow us on Facebook at Get Stuff’d.

Crowsnest Pass — Fire Restriction

The restriction took effect July 29, and will remain in place until conditions improve or further escalation is needed.

Not allowed:

Outdoor wood fires on public land, including backcountry and random camping areas

Any burning on private land, other than a campfire

Fireworks and exploding targets

Still allowed:

Backyard fire pits
Propane fire pits and gas-powered appliances
Charcoal and wood-burning devices with an on/off switch
Indoor wood fires
Open-flame oil devices

For more information, contact the municipal office at 403-562-8833.

Waterton — Fire Restriction

Campfires are permitted only in designated Parks Canada metal fire rings or boxes and cook stoves within cooking shelters.

Building a rock ring in place of these designated pits is not permitted, and random fires are never allowed.

To safely enjoy a campfire in the park:

Keep campfires small and only in designated fire rings or boxes.
Never leave a campfire unattended.
Completely extinguish campfires with water — soak it, stir it, and soak it again until it’s cool to the touch before leaving it.
Naturally occurring wildfires, such as those from lightning strikes, can’t be prevented, but human-caused fires can. Parks Canada asks the public to help keep communities and first responders safe by not lighting illegal campfires.

Report wildfires, illegal campfires or suspicious smoke to Parks Canada Dispatch at 1-888-927-3367.

For the most current fire ban information, visit albertafirebans.ca.

Fire Bans, Fire Restrictions

Heart rate graphic over orange background with text reading "EMERGENCY ROOM CLOSURE" on top and "Fort Macleod Health centre" on bottom.

Fort Macleod ED without physician coverage overnight

Written on July 23, 2026. Posted in Health & Wellness.

The emergency department at Fort Macleod Health Centre will be without physician coverage from 7 p.m. Thursday, July 23, to 7 a.m. Friday, July 24, because of an unexpected shortage of clinical staff.

Nursing staff will remain on-site during that time, providing triage, assessment and referral to emergency departments in neighbouring communities as needed.

Anyone with a medical emergency during the overnight period is asked to call 911. Emergency Health Services will continue to serve the community and will re-route patients to surrounding facilities, including Claresholm General Hospital, Pincher Creek Health Centre, Chinook Regional Hospital and Cardston Health Centre.

Health Link is available 24/7 at 811 for non-emergency health questions, and local pharmacies can help with some needs.

AHS says it is still working to find coverage, and the disruption will be cancelled if staff are secured.

Residents with concerns can contact AHS Patient Relations at 1-855-550-2555.

Physician Shortage

Fire restriction notice for Pincher Creek area with prohibited fire symbol

Fire restriction now in effect — firepits still allowed

Written on July 21, 2026. Posted in RCMP & Public Safety.

A fire restriction is now in effect for the town of Pincher Creek and surrounding municipal district, the village of Cowley and Piikani Nation, in response to recent and forecast warm, dry conditions.

Under the restriction:

—No new debris-burning permits will be issued, and existing debris-burning permits will not be extended.

—Fireworks are prohibited.

—Recreational firepit and burn barrel permits remain active and are still being issued.

Residents are asked to use caution with open flames and off-highway vehicles, which can spark grass fires in dry conditions.

The restriction will stay in effect until conditions change. For more information, call 403-627-5333 or visit albertafirebans.ca.

Fire Restrictions, Wildfire Prevention

A magnifying glass hovers over a computer keyboard, highlighting four red keys that spell out "SCAM" in white letters.

Watch out for fake Alberta Health texts, BBB warns

Written on July 8, 2026. Posted in Health & Wellness, RCMP & Public Safety.

The Better Business Bureau is warning Albertans about fake text messages claiming their Alberta Health card needs updating.

The scam texts tell recipients that health cards issued before January 2023 are invalid and that they must update their personal information, according to the BBB.

“This is another phishing scam that every Albertan should be aware of,” says Mary O’Sullivan-Andersen, president and CEO of BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay. “The scammers are sending out texts claiming Albertans have to update their personal information because health cards issued before January 2023 are invalid. This is a scam.”

She says the texts carry telltale signs. They claim to be official communication from the Government of Canada — but health care is a provincial responsibility, not federal. The texts also include an email address from a large private email provider, another red flag.

“Delete this text — do not engage,” she says.

Don’t trust unsolicited messages

Scammers claim you’ve won a prize, an account is about to be deactivated, or a package couldn’t be delivered — and they often push you to “act now.” The urgency is deliberate: they want you scared or excited enough to respond without thinking. Before you do, ask whether you gave the company permission to text you, entered a contest, or are expecting a package. If an out-of-the-blue offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Watch for suspicious links

Most scam texts contain a link, and scammers hope alarm or excitement will make you click without thinking. Some links download malware onto your device; others lead to lookalike websites built to harvest your personal information, login and passwords.

A personalized message doesn’t make the sender trustworthy

Thanks to data breaches and online directories, scammers may already have your name, address, bank or phone provider, and they’ll include those details to seem legitimate. When in doubt, contact the business directly.

Ace of spades card on ad for Chase the Ace at the Pincher Creek Legion

Look for spelling and grammar errors

Many fake texts are written by someone not fluent in English, so strange phrasing and errors are a warning sign — though skilled scammers won’t always slip up. Legitimate companies use professional writers, so mistakes are a red flag.

If a website looks real, check again

Even if a link takes you to what looks like an official site, don’t assume it’s safe — scammers can copy a legitimate website exactly and steal your login if you enter it. Check the URL carefully before typing anything.

Look up phone numbers before you call

Scammers may prompt you to call a number under the guise of a real business. Once you’re on the line, they’ll ask you to “confirm your identity” with a PIN, password or social insurance number. No legitimate company asks for that over the phone. If you realize you’re talking to a scammer, hang up and block the number.

Don’t reply, even to opt out

Some scammers ask you to text “STOP” or “NO.” Replying only confirms your number is active and can invite more attacks. Block the number and delete the message.

Keep antivirus software up to date

It can warn you about fake and unsafe websites if you do click a link.

Consumer Fraud, Government Impersonation Scams, Health Card Scams, Online Safety, Personal Information, Phishing Scams, Scam Prevention, Scams, Text Message Scams

The image features the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) crest on a background of blue and red police lights, with the text "Crowsnest Pass RCMP" in bold white letters on a black banner.

Crowsnest Pass RCMP search for missing two-year-old boy

Written on June 17, 2026. Posted in RCMP & Public Safety.

Update – June 18 @12:18 a.m.

The missing child was located and is safe.

*** Original Post – June 17 @ 10:35 p.m. ***

Crowsnest Pass RCMP are asking for the public’s help to find a missing two-year-old boy.

He is described as Caucasian with reddish hair and was last seen wearing purple pyjamas.

If you see this child, please call 911 immediately.

No further details (location last seen or photo) have been provided but will be posted here when updated.

Missing Persons

Graphic with the text "Municipal News from the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass" on the right side, featuring a stylized image of people seated around a meeting table on the left.

Crowsnest Pass to launch Think Tank town halls June 16

Written on May 26, 2026. Posted in Civic & Government, Community Life.

Crowsnest Pass residents will have a new way to share ideas with council when the municipality launches its first Think Tank town hall on June 16.

The in-person session will be held at Crowsnest Community Hall, beginning at 6 p.m. Residents will take part in small-group discussions with council members during a two-hour event designed to identify and prioritize community ideas.

The format was shaped by a January public survey that received 448 responses and highlighted concerns around long-term economic direction, housing, infrastructure, bylaw enforcement and municipal transparency.

The new engagement model follows a process that began in late 2025, when council approved holding regular town hall meetings starting in 2026 and directed administration to seek public input on how those sessions should be structured.

That direction stemmed from a notice of motion brought forward by Coun. Doreen Johnson at the Dec. 9 council meeting. She said the idea was rooted in repeated concerns she heard from residents who felt their voices were not being reflected in decision-making.

“I continually heard ‘Our voice isn’t heard, our opinion doesn’t count’ as an overwhelming concern of the residents,” she told Shootin’ the Breeze during an earlier discussion on the initiative.

Johnson said the goal is to create space for those voices to be heard, particularly for residents who may face barriers to participation.

Council amended the original proposal for quarterly meetings, opting for three town halls per year, with dates and locations to be determined. Members also supported conducting a public survey before finalizing the format.

Ad for Blinds and More Fall Sale: 40% off Alta Blinds from Sept 15 to Nov 30, 2026. Living room with large windows covered by wood blinds. Contact info and locations listed.

At the time, councillors emphasized the importance of learning from past attempts at public meetings. Coun. Dean Ward said council needed to ensure the process was structured in a way that encouraged participation rather than repeating previous challenges.

The January survey was distributed through multiple channels, including the municipal website, social media platforms, the Municipal Loop app, digital displays and the monthly newsletter, and was open for the full month.

According to the municipal communications co-ordinator, Sasha Lassey, participation was higher than expected.

“We received 448 responses, which exceeded expectations and gave us a strong and representative picture of community priorities,” she says.

Survey respondents identified five consistent themes: long-term vision and economic development, transparency and public engagement, housing and development, bylaw enforcement and community standards, and infrastructure and municipal services.

Residents specifically called for clearer long-term planning beyond coal-related economic reliance and improved transparency before decisions are made.

They also wanted to see increased rental housing, clearer development processes, stronger enforcement of bylaws related to nuisance properties and community safety, and more visible planning for roads, snow removal, sidewalks and trails.

Those results are now shaping the first Think Tank session.

An older couple smiles while leaning on a wooden railing outdoors, above text describing their $879 profit share from Vision Credit Union and a website link.

Instead of a microphone-driven public forum, residents will sit at tables with council members and neighbours.

“The small-group format was chosen deliberately,” Lassey says. “Traditional open-floor town halls tend to favour residents who are comfortable speaking in front of a crowd, which means quieter voices often go unheard.”

Each table will follow a guided process that includes brainstorming ideas, narrowing them to key priorities and voting on the most important issues identified.

“The Think Tank format puts everyone at a smaller table of people with a council member, so every participant has a real opportunity to contribute,” Lassey says.

“The structured rounds also help move the conversation toward specific, actionable priorities rather than open-ended discussion.”

Each table will have a designated recorder to document discussion. Staff will compile information after the event and a summary will be posted on the municipality’s website.

Residents who provided email addresses in the January survey will also receive the summary directly.

While council has supported holding three town halls per year, Lassey says future use of the Think Tank format will depend on how the first session goes and how residents respond.

Access remains a consideration, as the Think Tank format is currently limited to in-person participation.

Residents can still provide feedback through the municipal website or by contacting the municipal office at 403-562-8833.

Bylaw Enforcement, economic development, Housing, Infrastructure, Municipal Governance, Municipal Transparency, public engagement, Think Tank Town Halls

Former Town of Pincher Creek mayor Don Anderberg flips pancakes on a griddle. Text next to him says "Pancake flippers needed! Calling local community groups."

Town seeks a host to flip pancakes for hundreds on Aug. 15

Written on May 20, 2026. Posted in Civic & Government, Community Life.

The downtown pancake breakfast is a rodeo weekend tradition that draws hundreds every year. The Town of Pincher Creek invites community groups to apply to host the annual affair on Aug. 15.

Service clubs, non-profit organizations and other community groups are eligible.

The breakfast has been a Pincher Creek tradition for more than 30 years, according to Konrad Dunbar, the town’s chief administrative officer.

Hosting the breakfast gives an organization a chance to showcase its work, connect with residents and visitors, and take part in one of the community’s biggest weekends of the year. Proceeds go to the host group to support its programs.

“We want to give all local interested organizations the opportunity to participate in co-ordinating this longstanding community tradition,” Dunbar says.

While the town will not serve as the primary organizer, he says municipal support is available where feasible, including tables, garbage services and washroom access.

Members of both Town and MD of Pincher Creek councils will attend the breakfast and assist with serving.

Interested organizations can find application details online at pinchercreek.ca/rodeo-weekend or contact Carolina Hunsperger, executive assistant with the town, at 403-627-3156.

Community Events, Pancake Breakfast, Rodeo Weekend, Volunteer Opportunities

A green and yellow graphic that says "Trade Show 2026"

Pincher Creek Trade Show returns with boost for local economy

Written on April 15, 2026. Posted in Business & Economy, Community Life.

The annual Pincher Creek Trade Show is set to return later this month, bringing dozens of businesses together and offering a boost to the local economy through increased exposure, networking and visitor traffic.

Hosted by the Pincher Creek and District Chamber of Commerce, the two-day event on April 24 and 25 will feature more than 100 vendors, including 92 main show booths and 17 spring market exhibitors — an increase from last year.

Former chamber manager Amanda Rees says the expansion reflects growing interest from businesses looking for opportunities to connect with customers and generate sales in a challenging economic climate.

The event provides an important platform for businesses that may struggle to attract customers.

“We’ve kind of expanded it a little bit so we have a couple more booths than normal,” Rees says. “It’s really important, because a lot of businesses in our area struggle to get some clientele in and this is just a really great way to showcase what they have to offer.”

The trade show will be held at the MCC Arena on Main Street, running from 3 to 8 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

While exact attendance figures are difficult to track, Rees says the event sees significant foot traffic, giving vendors valuable exposure and opportunities to build connections with potential customers.

“Because it’s free, people can come and go as they please, and that helps bring more people through the doors,” she says. “I think that gives people great exposure. They can network really well.”

Poster for Pincher Creek Chamber’s 31st Annual Awards of Excellence on October 23, 2026. Ticket prices and event details are listed, with a link for tickets at PincherChamber.ca/tickets.

Vendors include a mix of local and regional participants, with businesses coming from communities such as Lethbridge, Cardston and the Crowsnest Pass, alongside a strong local presence.

The event is divided into two sections, with a spring market featuring artisans, baked goods and handmade products at the entrance, followed by the main trade show floor showcasing larger businesses, equipment and services.

Beyond direct sales, Rees said the event often leads to longer-term economic benefits, as attendees connect with businesses and follow up after the show.

“I myself contacted a few booths after attending the trade show to get quotes for my house,” she shares.

The trade show also contributes to broader economic activity in the community.

“It’s a way to bring more people into Pincher Creek. And while they are in town, they go buy our gas or they go to our restaurants,” Rees says. “So it’s a really great way to showcase the entire town and not just focus on one area.”

Main Street businesses, in particular, tend to see increased traffic during the event, as visitors travel through the area and explore nearby shops.

Organizers are enhancing the overall experience this year with attractions such as music performances throughout the day Saturday, outdoor vendors and food trucks.

Event flyer for International Credit Union Day at Vision Credit Union on October 15, inviting community members to bring food bank donations in exchange for a wall calendar.

“We have got six bands playing on the Saturday, which is really exciting,” Rees says.

Events like the trade show play an important role in supporting small businesses, especially amid rising costs and economic uncertainty.

“I am sure people are definitely struggling. I think that it’s important to just kind of remember what businesses are in our area and how important it is to support those that are local to us,” she says.

In addition to the trade show, several complementary activities are planned around town, including a skate jam hosted by Boarderline Skate Shop, a family-friendly kid zone at the local library and programming at the Huddleston Senior Centre.

Overall, it’s an event that encourages residents and visitors to spend time and money locally.

As attendees navigate the arena and engage with vendors, they will also have the chance to win exciting prizes, take part in free giveaways and take advantage of special promotions and discounts from vendors.

“It is a big family-friendly event,” Rees says. “It has so many awesome things that people can do and check out.”

Community Events, economic development, Pincher Creek Trade Show, Shop Local, Small Business

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What’s next for Lundbreck? MD to present growth study April 16

Written on April 8, 2026. Posted in Civic & Government, Community Life.

As part of its long-term planning, the MD of Pincher Creek will present the findings of its Lundbreck Hamlet Growth Study at an April 16 open house.

Gavin Scott, senior planner with the Oldman River Regional Services Commission, will make a formal presentation and visual displays will be available for review.

MD development officer Laura McKinnon says the study partnered the MD with ORRSC and is a planned step under the municipality’s broader planning framework.

“The purpose of doing the study was to see what future growth looks like in Lundbreck, potentially what the constraints are,” she says.

The study follows Municipal Development Plan Bylaw 1330-21, which emphasizes sustaining hamlets while protecting agricultural land. It explores options for a small industrial area, evaluates commercial requirements and identifies opportunities for hamlet expansion.

The first phase involved gathering input through a community-wide survey distributed by mail and online in September 2024.

“We mailed out 129 surveys on Sept. 25 and by Oct. 25, we received 31 responses: nine online, seven by mail and 15 dropped off at the MD of Pincher Creek office,” McKinnon says.

The survey asked about property type, length of residence and quality of life, and invited suggestions for improvement.

The resulting summary outlines a growth vision and identifies possible strategies and action items. It will be released publicly for the first time at the open house.

Residents will be able to view the findings and learn how the study has translated community feedback into planning considerations. They will also have the opportunity to ask questions and provide further feedback.

The open house runs from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Lundbreck Community Hall. Gavin Scott’s presentation will be at 6.

community engagement, Hamlet Growth, Lundbreck Hamlet Growth Study, Municipal Planning