Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 13, 2021

We urge everyone to use caution when working and recreating outdoors.

During wildfire season, you are required to have 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.

Our area has detected numerous wildfires caused by work related sparks, friction and hot exhaust. Equipment repairs, grinding and welding can cause even small amounts of grass to ignite and wildfires to spread easily. When operating equipment, clear debris from moving parts, check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass, keep watch of your surroundings and ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available.

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

When Alberta wildfire firefighters aren't busy fighting wildfires, they do extensive training like mock exercises.

EDSON FOREST AREA FIRE DANGER RATING

The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area is now MODERATE, except for Grande Cache where it's HIGH.

EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since March 1, 2021, there have been 39 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 549 ha.

Wildfire EWF036 was detected on April 30 and is estimated to be 479 ha in size. The wildfire remains classified as under control and is located 20 km south of Carrot Creek, 25 km north west of Cynthia and 45 km south east of Edson.

Crews will continue to search for hotspots and monitor the fire until it's classified as extinguished.

The wildfire poses no threat to any community at this time. The cause of the wildfire is currently under investigation.

PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since March 1 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been 267 wildfires burning a total of 900 ha.  

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

FIRESMART TASK OF THE WEEK

FireSmart is becoming a well-adapted way of life for many communities in North America. With so many neighborhoods being threatened by wildfire each year, residents are taking action and reducing the risk to their homes and properties.

Spring is a great time to get your property Firesmart ready, here is one easy task you can tackle this week and throughout the summer.

To learn more about FireSmart, visit their website: https://www.firesmartcanada.ca/

WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS

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

• Before you burn it, get your fire permit. Fire permits in Alberta.
• Clear debris from hot spots on your off-highway vehicle.
• Ensure your campfire is out - soak it, stir it, soak it again.
• 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: