While you're out enjoying the outdoors this August Long Weekend, we ask that you properly put out your campfire. Soak it, stir it, soak it again and never leave it unattended. If you see smoke or flame in the forest, call 310-FIRE.
The Wildfire Danger remains LOW in the Edson Forest Area. We ask that you use extreme caution at all times when working and recreating in the outdoors.
Remember to always fully extinguish your campfire and never leave it unattended. Knock the hotspots off your OHV and if you see smoke or flame in the forest, report it to 310-FIRE (3473).
EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE | August 1, 2019
The Edson Forest Area (EFA) currently has 0 active wildfire.
Since March 1, 2019, there have been 55 wildfires in the EFA which has burnt approximately 265 ha. To view the provincial wildfire map, visit our website by clicking here.
A campfire should be built on level ground near water and should be sheltered from the wind. If water isn't nearby, keep a large pail already filled with water within reach. Under the right conditions, wind can pick up sparks or embers and cause a wildfire.
NEVER LEAVE IT UNATTENDED
Whether you're going to bed, going out for a short hike or heading home, your campfire must be extinguished before you leave it, to prevent wildfires. Under the Government of Alberta's Forest and Prairie Protection Act, you can be charged and fined for violations.
To properly put out your campfire, you must soak it, stir it and soak it again with a shovel or large stick until the ashes are cool to the touch. Hot embers can smolder deep underground and re-surface when the wind picks up. Don't take any chances, soak it right!
IF YOU PLAN TO BURN IT, GET YOUR PERMIT
If you’re planning on having a fire within the Forest Protection Area that’s not a cooking or heating fire, you’ll need to get a free permit from your local Forestry office.
Why is it so important to get your fire permit? It helps us keep track of burning, and more importantly, smoke and flame. This means that when lookout observers report a smoke from their tower, fire fighters aren't dispatched unnecessarily when they could be needed elsewhere. It also allows forest officers the opportunity to share tips on safe burning techniques, keeping you and your community safe from wildfire.
Visit our website by clicking here or phone toll-free 310-0000 to find the office nearest you.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE | August 1, 2019
There are currently 23 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 9 are being held, 10 are under control and 4 have been turned over to the responsible parties.Since March 1, 2019, Alberta has recorded 871 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta that have burned a total of 869,278.16 hectares.
Fire Danger Rating: Mainly low to moderate in the province with some local high in the southern slopes.Agriculture and Forestry has the following resources deployed on wildfires or pre-positioned across the province ready to action new wildfires: 964 firefighters and support staff, 56 helicopters, 17 airtankers and 6 pieces of heavy equipment.
Agriculture and Forestry is currently being supported by imported resources from the following provinces and agencies: British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario and Quebec.
For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca
WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS
- Get a permit if you're within the Forest Protection Area and you plan on burning with the exception of a campfire. For permit information, Click Here.
- 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
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