Alberta Wildfire urges everyone working and recreating in the outdoors to use extreme caution and be mindful of dried grass and woody debris. Any spark, hot exhaust or friction can cause these fuels to catch easily and burn quickly which could start a wildfire.
During wildfire season, you are required to obtain a fire permit if you plan on burning in the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of a campfire. To request your free fire permit, contact the local forest area: (780) 723-8527.
If you see smoke or flame and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
EDSON FOREST AREA FIRE DANGER RATING
The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area is MODERATE except in the Grande Cache area where the wildfire danger is LOW.
FIRE ADVISORY IN EFFECT
A fire advisory is in effect for the Edson Forest Area due to expected warm temperatures and increased wind speeds. Under this advisory existing fire permits are still valid but may be suspended if warm, dry weather continues.
The public and residents in the Edson Forest Area can continue to use a fire pit, charcoal briquettes on a barbecue, or a safe campfire and recreational off-highway vehicles.
The fire advisory will remain in place until conditions improve.
Stay tuned to www.albertafirebans.ca throughout the wildfire season for more information about fire bans and restrictions in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
Alberta wildfire firefighter working the nozzle to extinguish EWF007.
EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE
There are currently two active wildfires in the area. Both EWF007 and EWF009 were detected on March 18th.
EWF007 is located approximately 2 km south of highway 16 and 1.5 km east of highway 753. There is currently no threat to any community. The wildfire is estimated to be 6.74 hectares in size and is currently under control. The wildfire is burning in grass and has burnt some trees. There are five wildfire firefighting crew members on scene working to extinguish the fire. The cause of the wildfire is currently under investigation.
EWF008 was 0.01 ha and located 9 km west of Edson. It is now extinguished and no longer active.
EWF009 is located approximately 6 km south southwest of Evensburg. There is currently no threat to any community. The wildfire burnt 0.10 ha and is currently under control. Wildfire firefighters will continue to monitor and ensure that the fire is fully extinguished.
Since March 1, 2021, there have been nine wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 7.47 ha.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE
There are currently four wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Since March 1 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been 15 wildfires burning a total of 8.98 ha.
For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca
WILDFIRE SEASON STARTS MARCH 1
Starting March 1, fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Fire permits help us to track what is burning on the landscape. If you're burning without a fire permit or outside fire permit conditions, your fire is considered a wildfire. By getting a permit you help keep our firefighters free to fight real wildfires instead of responding to the smoke in your backyard. Fire permits are free and can be requested from your local Agriculture and Forestry office. For the Edson Forest Area, you can reach us at (780) 723-8527.
When checking your winter burns, spread around any remaining debris so you can probe the area for hotspots. Use your bare hand to feel for heat over the ash piles. If you see smoke or feel heat, the fire is still burning. Douse any remaining hotspots with water and stir up the ashes. A fire is not out until there is absolutely no heat emanating from the ashes.
You can refer to the Brush Piles and Windrows Pamphlet for more information on safe burning practices and proper extinguishment of your burns.
WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS
Albertans are always asked to use caution when working or recreating in the outdoors:
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Before you burn it, get your fire permit. Fire permits in Alberta.
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Clear debris from hot spots on your off-highway vehicle.
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Ensure your campfire is out - soak it, stir it, soak it again.
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Before you head out this weekend, check out the albertafirebans.ca website or download the app to stay informed.
ALBERTA WILDFIRE INFORMATION
- Subscribe to the Edson Forest Area wildfire update to receive an email when new information is posted.
- Download the Alberta Wildfire App for Apple and Android device.
- Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
For more information, please contact: