This release was issued under a previous government.


Keep debris free of off-highway vehicle hotspots to help prevent wildfires

During the spring, dry conditions and strong winds have the potential to fuel fast-burning wildfires.

“It is unacceptable that over the past five years, more than two thirds of all the wildfires in Alberta were caused by people. We have to be more vigilant in protecting our valuable forestry resource and keeping our firefighters from being placed in harm’s way fighting fires that are completely preventable.”

Oneil Carlier, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry

Last year, wildfires consumed nearly 492,000 hectares, an area more than seven times greater than Edmonton, and more than twice the 25-year average.

Wildfire prevention tips

  • When putting out fires, especially burn piles and campfires, soak the fire with water, stir the ashes and soak again. The ashes should not be hot to the touch.
  • When using an off-road vehicle, stop every once in a while and check for any debris that may be caught, superheated, drop to the ground and start a wildfire.
  • Check any fall and winter burns to make sure they are completely extinguished.

With the start of wildfire season on March 1, fire permits are required for all burning in the Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires.

Fire permits are free and can be requested at local Agriculture and Forestry offices by calling 310-000 or by visiting firepermits.alberta.ca.

Keep up-to-date on wildfire activity in the province by “liking” the Alberta Wildfire page on Facebook, following @AlbertaWildfire on Twitter and downloading the free Alberta Wildfire app.

To report a wildfire in Alberta, call toll-free 310-FIRE (3473).

For information about fire bans and forest closures, visit albertafirebans.ca.