Calgary Area Update

The wildfire danger across the Calgary Forest Area (CFA) remains LOW. Areas of exposed, dead vegetation present an increased risk outside of the normal fire season. Strong chinook winds can push fast moving wildfires even in the winter months.

EXPORT TO CALIFORNIA

Among the 42 Alberta wildland firefighters exported to California, five are our very own CFA staff. We wish them a safe and productive assignment away.

Ethan and Jeremy Cali-1

Wildland firefighters from CFA on export to California to assist on wildfires burning in that jurisdiction.

RIBBON CREEK PRESCRIBED FIRE PROJECT

When staff are available, work will continue on the Ribbon Creek Prescribed Fire project. This is a continuation of efforts undertaken in 2023 and 2024. At this time, crews are SOLELY working on establishing and strengthening containment lines for future ignition of the main unit. The larger project will not be initiated until all guard lines and preparation work has been completed and when overall conditions are conducive to a successful operation. A local closure is currently in place for safety reasons as crews have been cutting trees, piling debris and burning piles.

WILDFIRES IN THE CFA

Since January 1, 2025, the Calgary Forest Area has responded to two wildfires.

CWF-001 was detected on January 10, it is now UNDER CONTROL at 0.03 hectares.

CWF-002 was detected on January 16, it is now EXTINGUISHED at 0.01 hectares.

These wildfires remain under investigation.

Wildfire updates will only be sent on an as-needed basis. You can expect regular wildfire updates to resume when the 2025 wildfire season begins on March 1.

SAFE BURNING PRACTICES

c4932_WinterBurning_V1_Facebook_1200x628

Although fire permits are not required until March 1, safe burning practices are always in season. You are responsible for any fires you ignite, year-round.

Before You Burn

Winter burns should be conducted in areas with sufficient snow cover of more than 15 cm, and the burns must be monitored the entire time.
Refrain from burning when an inversion is in place or forecasted
Consult your local municipality on how to safely undertake larger winter burning projects near communities or roads.

While Burning

Have someone monitor the burn the entire time. If it escapes, immediately report it to 310-FIRE.
Ensure you have the right tools, water and equipment on hand to keep the burn under control.
Only burn what you can control with the equipment and personnel available, and adjust your burning according to current weather conditions in your area.
Build it right. Brush piles or debris windrows should be free of soil, built to a maximum height of three metres, and have cleared land around them to stop the spread of fire.

After You Burn

Spread the remaining material within the pile and soak it with water or snow as required.
Check the area to ensure both heat and smoke are no longer being produced by the pile—it should be cool to the touch.
Check your burn site multiple times in the following weeks to ensure it has not reignited.

JOIN THE 2025 WILDFIRE TEAM

Details for many wildfire support positions are posted on our recruitment website. Check back often if you know someone interested in joining the Alberta Wildfire team.

C9969_WildfireRecruitment_1-1_1200x1200_V1_seasonal