With current snow cover and warmer weather, cured grass and fine fuels are becoming very dry. Any spark, hot exhaust or friction will catch easily and burn quickly which could start a wildfire. We ask that you use caution when working or recreating in the outdoors and keep watch of your surroundings.
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.
Revisit your fall and winter burns to ensure they're fully extinguished.
EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE
The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area remains LOW. There are currently no active wildfires in the area. Since March 1, 2021, there have been five wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 0.32 ha.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE
There are currently five wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Four of these wildfires are under control and one has been turned over to the responsible party. Since March 1 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been nine wildfires burning a total of 0.52 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.
Government-hired contractors are currently doing mountain pine beetle (MPB) survey and control in the forest until the end of March. For more information on MPB, strategies and preventing the spread, click here to visit our website.
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: