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.
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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 12, 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 the Unit Crew. This crew consists of 20 members who are specialized in containing and completely extinguishing wildfires.
Unlike Helitack and Rappel crews who use helicopters to access the wildfire, Unit Crews generally use trucks and specialty ground equipment such as Hagglunds. They are highly trained in sustained action of the wildfire and maintain a high level of fitness, which make them an essential role in ensuring the wildfire doesn't spread or re-ignite.
To see the Unit Crew in action, click here to see their Video.
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 Unit Crew posing against a Hagglund earlier this season on a wildfire in Northern Alberta.
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 12, 2019
Since March 1, 2019, Alberta has recorded 959 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta that have burned a total of 883,403.83 hectares.
Fire Danger Rating: low to moderate over the province.
Agriculture and Forestry has the following resources deployed on wildfires or pre-positioned across the province ready to action new wildfires: 259 firefighters and support staff, 12 helicopters and 1 airtanker.
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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