A concerning number of wildfires caused by work-related sparks, hot exhaust and friction have been detected in the Edson Forest Area. Equipment repairs, grinding and welding can cause even small amounts of grass to ignite. We urge everyone to keep watch of their surroundings and take necessary steps to prevent wildfires.
If you're having a campfire this weekend, ensure you properly extinguish it. Soak the ashes, stir them and soak them again until they're cool to the touch. Never leave your campfire unattended.
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.
If you see smoke or flame and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
AB wildfire firefighters were busy this month responding to 17 new wildfires in our forest area.
EDSON FOREST AREA FIRE DANGER RATING
The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area is now MODERATE.
EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE
Since March 1, 2021, there have been 53 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 562 ha. As of today, 98% of our wildfires were human-caused which could have been prevented.
EWF049 was detected on May 22 and is located along highway 751 north of Nojack near the community of Mackay. The wildfire is now 8.60 ha in size and classified as under control.
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 wildfires until they are extinguished.
Neither wildfire pose a threat to any community at this time. The cause of these wildfires is currently under investigation.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE
Since March 1 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been 415 wildfires burning a total of 1,002 ha.
For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca
OPERATING EQUIPMENT IN THE FIELD
When working in the field, we ask that you keep watch of your surroundings and be mindful of spark, hot exhaust and friction that could start a wildfire.
FIRESMART TASK OF THE WEEK
Using FireSmart principles is becoming a way of life for many communities in North America. With so many neighborhoods threatened by wildfire each year, residents are taking action and reducing the risk to their homes and properties.
Spring is a great time to make 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:
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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: