The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area is LOW. Always extinguish your campfire and never leave it unattended. If you see smoke or flame in the forest, call 310-FIRE.
Rainfall and cool temperatures will keep the Wildfire Danger at 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 | September 5, 2019
The Edson Forest Area (EFA) currently has 0 active wildfires.
Since March 1, 2019, there have been 61 wildfires in the EFA which has burnt approximately 265 ha. To view the provincial wildfire map, visit our website by clicking here.
WILDFIRE FIREFIGHTERS
Alberta has several types of wildfire firefighting crews. This week we're featuring Firetack. The members of this crew are specialized in extinguishing the wildfire once initial attack is done. Long after the flames are gone, the hard work continues. This crew locates hotspots by cold trailing or using heat scanners. Once identified, they'll cut down and buck trees, dig out roots and turn over deep ash pits to soak hotspots.
Unlike Rappel and Helitack crews who mostly use helicopters, these firefighters access the fire by truck and specialty ground equipment such as Hagglunds. They play an essential role in ensuring the wildfire doesn't re-ignite and spread.
Are you or someone you know interested in a wildfire position? Visit our recruitment website by clicking here to learn more about what we have to offer! Applications for wildfire firefighters close November 30th!
The Edson Firetack Crew (EFB01) is posing after a long day of training in the field.
Since 1965, the Junior Forest Rangers (JFR) program is proud to offer Albertan youth the opportunity to get started in a career related to natural resource management and forestry.
All crews consist of eight crew members between the ages of 16-18 from across the province and two crew leaders. This summer experience is challenging, unique, and rewarding. Visit their website by clicking here to learn more!
MOUNTAIN PINE BEETLE
Many of you may notice an increase in helicopter activity in your area. Agriculture and Forestry staff as well as government-hired contractors have begun their annual mountain pine beetle (MPB) aerial survey program, which takes on average 6 weeks to complete. The helicopters will be flying low-level over the forest in a grid like pattern.
To read more on mountain pine beetle, please visit the Agriculture and Forestry website.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE | September 5, 2019
Since March 1, 2019, Alberta has recorded 955 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta that have burned a total of 888,402.00 hectares.
Fire Danger Rating: low to moderate over province.
Agriculture and Forestry has the following resources deployed on wildfires or pre-positioned across the province ready to action new wildfires: 342 firefighters and support staff, 15 helicopters and 6 airtankers.
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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