Edson Area Update

WILDFIRE HAZARD

The wildfire hazard in the Edson Forest Area (EFA) remains HIGH.  Click here to view the wildfire hazard map.

Strong, gusty winds are forecast for this afternoon: southwest at 20 km/h then shifting to northwest at 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h. Remember to check and follow the conditions of your burning permit.

We have crews, aircraft and heavy equipment located throughout the Edson Forest Area ready to action any new wildfires.

Always use caution and remember to call 310-FIRE (3473) if you see fire or smoke in the forest.

The Wildfire Advisory continues for the EFA.

Under this advisory

• No new fire permits will be issued until conditions improve.
• All heavy fuel fire permits are cancelled.
• All existing light fuel fire permits remain valid. 

Allowed

• Safe wood campfires in campgrounds (within fire rings) or random camping areas
• Charcoal briquettes
• Portable propane fire pits
• Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
• Catalytic or infrared-style heaters

The Fire Advisory will remain in place until the EFA receives sufficient amount of rain.

Stay current on Fire Advisories/Restrictions/Bans throughout the province of Alberta at AlbertaFireBans.ca.

SMOKE IN THE AIR

Smoke from wildfires in British Columbia continues to drift into the Edson Forest Area. Check current smoke forecasts here. If you are experiencing respiratory difficulties as a result of the smoke, please visit Alberta Health Link or dial 811. Check out Alberta's Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for information on air quality and your health. 

WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS

• Never leave your campfire unattended and make sure it is completely extinguished before you leave your site. Remember to soak it, stir it and soak it again. If you can still feel heat coming from the ashes it is not extinguished.
  
  
• Debris falling from off-highway vehicles can start wildfires. Exhaust systems can heat up to temperatures in excess of 200 degrees - hot enough to fry an egg. Remember to stop frequently and take the time to knock debris from your machine's hotspots. If debris is smouldering, soak it, stir it, and soak it again to ensure it's out.  

LOCAL WILDFIRE UPDATE

There are currently no wildfires in the Edson Forest Area.

PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE 10:00 a.m. August 18, 2017

There are currently 28 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Six wildfires are out of control (in the High Level Forest Area), six are being held, 11 are under control and five have been turned over to the responsible parties.

Since March 1, 2017, Alberta has recorded 1,036 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 15,963.73 hectares.

FOR MORE INFORMATION