Edson Area Update

Grass and fine fuels are dry and any spark, friction or hot exhaust can easily start a wildfire even when the temperatures are cooler. We urge those that work or recreate outdoors to use care and be prepared.

Wildfire season in Alberta is from March 1 until October 31. 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. To request your free fire permit, contact the local forest area: (780) 723-8527.

If you see smoke or flame and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.

It's important to keep your campfire small, away from dry grass and protected from the wind.

EDSON FOREST AREA FIRE DANGER RATING

The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area remains HIGH due to the dry grass, fine fuels and occasional strong winds.

HUNTING CAMPFIRES

This is the time of year when firefighters find abandoned campfires left by recreationalists and hunters who we believe didn’t realise that they still needed to fully extinguish their fire. It’s important to know that all campfires must be fully extinguished no matter what season it is. A campfire built on top of snow can easily smoulder in the debris underneath for weeks and even months, and re-ignite when the wind picks up or the conditions are favorable, which could cause a wildfire.

When you’re planning your campfire, choose your site carefully. Hard-packed mineral soil or gravel is best. Scrape away any flammable material and use extra care around dead grass. Keep your fire small and protected from the wind. Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished before you leave. Soak it with water or cover with dirt if needed, stir up the ashes and soak it again. Use your bare hands to feel for heat. If the ashes feel cold then the campfire is fully extinguished.

FARM AND ACREAGE OWNERS

Fall is a busy time of year in the farming community, with completing the harvest and getting the last of the bales hauled in before the snow arrives. Wildfire is perhaps the last thing on your mind, but the threat of wildfire still exists. Here are a few tips that can reduce the risk this fall.

1. Grease moving parts that require it on a regular basis to reduce friction and prevent heat buildup.

2. Clean your dusty equipment as needed with an air compressor, particularly balers.

3. Ensure all your machinery is equipped with sufficient fire fighting equipment like a fire extinguisher.

To learn more on what you can do to FireSmart your property, view the Farm and Acreage Magazine available by clicking here.

EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since March 1, 2021, there have been 165 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 828 ha. To date, 50 of these wildfires have been determined to be caused by lightning, 68 are under investigation and 47 are human-caused.

EWF124 is UNDER CONTROL. The wildfire is 40 km south of Grande Cache on the border of Jasper National Park within the same burnt area as the 2015 Rock Slide wildfire. The fire is currently estimated to be 7.7 ha in size and determined to be caused by lightning.

EWF075 is UNDER CONTROL. The wildfire is located 9 km west of Evansburg, north of highway 16 and west of highway 22. The wildfire is 175 hectares in size. The cause of the wildfire is currently under investigation.

There is no threat to any communities at this time.

The wildfires will be monitored as needed until they are classified as extinguished. To understand what the wildfire classifications mean, visit our website by clicking here.

To view the wildfires on a map, download the new AB Wildfire Status App.

PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since March 1 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been 1,255 wildfires burning a total of 52,899 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:

• Before you burn it, get your fire permit. Fire permits in Alberta.
• Clear debris from hot spots on your off-highway vehicle.
• Ensure your campfire is out - soak it, stir it, soak it again.
• 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: