A fire advisory is in effect for the Edson Forest Area. We urge everyone to use caution when working and recreating outdoors.
During wildfire season, you are required to have a fire permit if you plan on burning in the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of a campfire. At this time, all permits except for burn barrels and essential burning are cancelled and any new permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
Our area has detected numerous wildfires caused by work related sparks, friction and hot exhaust. Equipment repairs, grinding and welding can cause even small amounts of grass to ignite and wildfires to spread easily. When operating equipment, clear debris from moving parts, check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass, keep watch of your surroundings and ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available.
If you see smoke or flame and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
Wildfire EWF036 is currently burning out of control approximately 10 km west of Eta Lake, 20 km south of Carrot Creek, 25 km north west of Cynthia and 45 km south east of Edson.
The wildfire was detected on April 30th at 11:45 a.m and is currently estimated to be 616 ha in size. Very little fire activity was observed overnight. The fire did not grow beyond it's current perimeter however wildfire activity may increase if the temperatures rise and the humidity lowers throughout the day.
Crews worked on the fireline late into the evening last night. The dozers worked overnight and were able to built more then half of the containment line needed.
Today, 63 firefighters, three helicopters and 11 pieces of heavy equipment will be assisting wildfire operations. Six airtankers are on standby.
There are no communities threatened at this time. The cause of the wildfire is currently undetermined and under investigation.
EWF036 is currently burning out of control approximately 45 km south east of Edson (May 1, 2021 at 8:00 a.m.).
FIRE ADVISORY IN EFFECT
A fire advisory is in effect for the Edson Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area due to an abundance of dry fuels, expected warm temperatures, and increased wind speeds. Dry grass and crops are very hazardous and could ignite easily from any spark, friction or hot exhaust. Use extreme caution when working outdoors such as welding, grinding and operating equipment.
At this time, all permits except for burn barrels and essential burning are cancelled and any new permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
The public and residents in the Edson Forest Area can continue to use a fire pit, charcoal briquettes on a barbecue, or a safe campfire and recreational off-highway vehicles.
The fire advisory will remain in place until conditions improve.
Stay tuned to www.albertafirebans.ca throughout the wildfire season for more information about fire bans and restrictions in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
EDSON FOREST AREA FIRE DANGER RATING
The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area is now HIGH.
EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE
Since March 1, 2021, there have been 35 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 680 ha.
EWF028 was detected on April 16 and is now under control. The wildfire is approximately 22 km north of Edson, located approximately 3 km south of Emerson Creek Rd and 3 km west of the Amaco Road. This fire poses no threat to any community at this time. The estimated size of the fire is 35 ha. Crews will continue to search for any remaining hotspots and extinguish them. The fire will be monitored until it is classified as extinguished. The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE
Since March 1 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been 173 wildfires burning a total of 942 ha.
For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca
WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS
Albertans are always asked to use caution when working or recreating in the outdoors:
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Before you burn it, get your fire permit. Fire permits in Alberta.
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Clear debris from hot spots on your off-highway vehicle.
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Ensure your campfire is out - soak it, stir it, soak it again.
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Before you head out this weekend, check out the albertafirebans.ca website or download the app to stay informed.
ALBERTA WILDFIRE INFORMATION
- Subscribe to the Edson Forest Area wildfire update to receive an email when new information is posted.
- Download the Alberta Wildfire App for Apple and Android device.
- Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
For more information, please contact: