Edson Area Update

Edson Forest Area - Wildfire Update - November 30, 2020

Posted on Mon, Nov 30, 2020

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Be advised that due to warm weather, snow might melt quickly.  We ask that you always use caution when burning.  Be aware of your surroundings and monitor weather and wind forecasts.

Once you've completed your burning, ensure you fully extinguish your piles. If fires aren’t properly put out, they can spread and burn underground, under the snow and ice, all winter. Under the right conditions, these fires can re-emerge in the spring as wildfires. 

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

41 Nov 26 2020 Nov Burn PilesAgriculture and Forestry staff were conducting FireSmart maintenance on Hwy 40 South west of Hinton last week.

EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE

The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area remains LOW.  There are currently no active wildfires in the area.  

Several of our wildfires this year were caused by abandoned campfires.  Ensure you fully extinguish your campfire before you leave.  Soak it with water, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch.

Since March 1, 2020, there have been 59 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning approximately 9.22 ha.  One wildfire occurred before wildfire season which makes a total of 60 since January 1st.

Of the 59 wildfires in our area this wildfire season, six of these wildfires were caused by lightning and 53 were human-caused. The percentage of human-caused wildfires in the EFA this year was 90%.

We would like to thank the public for their patience during the fire ban that was in effect earlier this spring. We are also grateful for your diligence in extinguishing your campfires and reporting any suspected wildfires to 310-FIRE.

For information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca


ALBERTA WILDFIRE APPLICATIONS

Have you ever wanted to be a wildland firefighter? Here's your chance! 

Crew applications for the 2021 wildfire season are now being accepted. Experience a seasonal position like no other! Work with like-minded individuals who have a passion for hard work and building a positive team dynamic. Applications will be accepted until November 30, 2020. 

Find more information at https://wildfire.alberta.ca/recruitment/wildfire-crews.aspx

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WINTER BURNING

Fire permits are only required between March 1st and October 31st and therefore residents and industry are not currently required to contact Alberta Wildfire when burning, however we appreciate the information in the event that smoke is reported by the public.  

To assist the Edson Forest Area, please report your winter burning by contacting the dispatch line directly (780) 723-8507 with the following:

  • Name of landowner burning or company and representative name.
  • Phone number in case of emergency.
  • Legal land description or latitude/longitude.

Following safe burning practices during this period will help prevent holdover fires that can start spring wildfires. Although the snow helps reduce the risk of the fire burning into the ground, we recommend that you check all fall and winter burn sites to ensure that the fire is out. Walk the burn area and roll over any debris to check for hot spots.

Here are a few things to consider when burning this winter:

  • Ensure that you have the proper tools with you at any burn site.

  • Do not burn if the wind speed is over 12 km/h.  Wind can pick up sparks or embers and start a wildfire if the conditions are right.

  • As with any burning, do not attempt to burn more than you can control.

  • Frequently check your burns, especially in the spring.  A smoldering fire can burrow under the ground and re-surface months later. 

  • If you have any questions about proper burning procedures, visit wildfire.alberta.ca or phone 310-0000.

You can refer to the Brush Piles and Windrows Pamphlet for more information and safe burning practices.

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WILDFIRE COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS DAY 2021

Get your applications ready!  FireSmart Canada is now accepting applications for the #WildfirePrepDay 2021.  Receive $500 to help educate your community about #FireSmart best practices, and make a difference in your region. 

To learn more, visit the FireSmart Canada website: bit.ly/WildfirePrepDay2021

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 WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS

Albertans are always asked to use caution when working or recreating in the outdoors:  


 ALBERTA WILDFIRE INFORMATION

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For more information, please contact:

Caroline Charbonneau
Wildfire Information Officer | Edson Forest Area
Cell:  780-740-1341
caroline.charbonneau@gov.ab.ca
 
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