Edson Area Update

Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - September 12, 2018

Posted on Wed, Sep 12, 2018

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There are currently no wildfires in the Edson Forest Area (EFA).  Cooler temperatures and snow is expected for the rest of the week.  The wildfire danger will remain LOW in the EFA.

Always use caution when burning, no matter the fire danger.  If you see smoke or flame in the forest, report it by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 


Brush Pile Windrows Sign

With winter fast approaching, land owners and developers may be planning on clearing land before the snow settles.  

Brush piles and windrows are commonly used to burn woody debris from land clearing for agricultural and development purposes.  Alberta Wildfire can advise you on how to construct your burn site so it meets the guidelines for safe burning practices required for your fire permit.

Min Spacing Windrows

Safe Burning Tips

  • Never leave your fire unattended.
  • Only burn what you can control and follow the conditions of your permit.
  • Watch for sparks that may result in smaller fires.  Larger fires can send these sparks over several kilometers, especially when burning in the wind.
  • If winds are gusting over 15 km/hour or beyond your permit limit, immediately extinguish your fire.
  • Always have the tools available to put out any spot fires that may occur.

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


Fire Permits

Alberta's wildfire season begins March 1st and is effective until October 31st.  You must obtain a fire permit if you plan on burning in the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of a campfire.

Some of the reasons you require a permit:

  • Helps keep track of burning, more importantly, smoke and flame.
  • When lookout observers report a smoke, fire fighters aren't dispatched unnecessarily when they could be needed elsewhere.
  • Allows for opportunities to give tips on safe burning techniques.

To obtain your free fire permit, contact your local Alberta Agriculture and Forestry office or phone toll-free 310-0000 to locate your nearest office.

FIREPERMIT


WILDFIRE SITUATION | September 12, 2018 

Edson Forest Area:

There are currently no wildfires in the area.  Since March 1, 2018 there have been 114 wildfires in the EFA that have burned approximately 1,093 hectares in total.

Provincial Stats:

  • There are currently 15 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 11 are under control and 4 have been turned over to the responsible parties.

  • Since March 1, 2018, Alberta has recorded 1,220 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 59,780 hectares.

  • Agriculture and Forestry has the following resources deployed on wildfires or pre-positioned across the province ready to action new wildfires: 181 firefighters, 12 helicopters, heavy equipment and 1 airtanker.

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


WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS

Albertans are always asked to use caution when out working or enjoying the forest within the Forest Protection Area. Please remember to:


 ALBERTA WILDFIRE INFORMATION

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For more information, contact:

Caroline Charbonneau
Wildfire Information Officer
780.740.1341