Edson Area Update

Be advised that a wind advisory is in effect for the Edson Forest Area.  Strong winds are expected today, with gusts as high as 90 km/h near Hinton and the Highway 16 corridor.  Use extreme caution if burning and do not burn if winds exceed above 12 km/hr.

Wildfire season officially ended on October 31, but safe burning practices are always in season. Fire permits are no longer required for burning. However, you are still responsible for the safe maintenance of any fires and for fully extinguishing winter burns.

We ask that you use caution when camping, hunting or working in the outdoors and keep watch of your surroundings. Ensure you fully extinguish your campfire and never leave it unattended.  If you suspect a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.

View from Athabasca Tower in early October.

EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE

The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area remains LOW.  There are currently no active wildfires in the area.  

Several of our wildfires this year were caused by abandoned campfires.  Ensure you fully extinguish your campfire before you leave.  Soak it with water, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch.

Since March 1, 2020, there have been 58 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning approximately 6.28 ha.  One wildfire occurred before wildfire season which makes a total of 59 since January 1st.

2020 WILDFIRE SEASON

Of the 58 wildfires in our area this wildfire season, six of these wildfires were caused by lighting and 52 were human-caused. The percentage of human-caused wildfires in the EFA this year was 90%.

We would like to thank the public for their patience during the fire ban that was in effect earlier this spring. We are also grateful for your diligence in extinguishing your campfires and reporting any suspected wildfires to 310-FIRE.

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

WINTER BURNING

After October 31st, residents and industry are not required to contact Alberta Wildfire when burning, however we appreciate the information in the event that smoke is reported by the public.  

To assist the Edson Forest Area, please report your winter burning by contacting the dispatch line directly (780) 723-8507 with the following:

• • Name of landowner burning or company and representative name.
  • Phone number in case of emergency.
  • Legal land description or latitude/longitude.

Following safe burning practices during this period will help prevent holdover fires that can start spring wildfires. Although the snow helps reduce the risk of the fire burning into the ground, we recommend that you check all fall and winter burn sites to ensure that the fire is out. Walk the burn area and roll over any debris to check for hot spots.

Here are a few things to consider when burning this winter:

• Ensure that you have the proper tools with you at any burn site.

• Do not burn if the wind speed is over 12 km/h.  Wind can pick up sparks or embers and start a wildfire if the conditions are right.

• As with any burning, do not attempt to burn more than you can control.

• Frequently check your burns, especially in the spring.  A smoldering fire can burrow under the ground and re-surface months later. 

• If you have any questions about proper burning procedures, visit wildfire.alberta.ca or phone 310-0000.

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

WILDFIRE COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS DAY 2021

Get your applications ready!  FireSmart Canada is now accepting applications for the #WildfirePrepDay 2021.  Receive $500 to help educate your community about #FireSmart best practices, and make a difference in your region. 

To learn more, visit the FireSmart Canada website: bit.ly/WildfirePrepDay2021

ALBERTA WILDFIRE APPLICATIONS

Have you ever wanted to be a wildland firefighter? Here's your chance! 

Crew applications for the 2021 wildfire season are now being accepted. Experience a seasonal position like no other! Work with like-minded individuals who have a passion for hard work and building a positive team dynamic. Applications will be accepted until November 30, 2020. 

Find more information at https://wildfire.alberta.ca/recruitment/wildfire-crews.aspx

 WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS

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

• 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: