This release was issued under a previous government.
A human-caused wildfire from this past fall burns in southern Alberta near the Coleman area. Albertans need to do their part to prevent wildfires.
Firefighters and support staff are training and readying equipment and aircraft to be fully operational for the start of fire season on March 1. More than 100 firefighters are working across the province and more are being added every week to ensure that proper resources are in place and the province is fully prepared for a fire.
“The protection of Albertans and their communities is one of our highest priorities and our firefighters will be ready to fight wildfires when they start. We are ready, but we need every Albertan’s help. We’re asking everyone to do their part in preventing fires.”
Starting March 1, fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Getting a fire permit ensures that firefighters know exactly where burning is being done in the forest. This helps prevent false calls, which take firefighters away from potential real wildfire-response. Fire permits are free and can be requested from any Agriculture and Forestry office.
Quick facts
- Last fire season, 1,231 fires burned more than 49,000 hectares in Alberta
- From March 1 to October 31 last year, there were 789 human-caused wildfires
- More than 68 tickets and written warnings were given to Albertans last year for burning without a permit and leaving campfires unattended
- If you see a wildfire burning in the forest, report it toll-free at 310-FIRE (3473)