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Low wildfire danger
The fire danger is anticipated to increase as snow melts and dead dry grass and vegetation become exposed. Under the current conditions, dry vegetation could catch easily and burn quickly but is not expected to spread to deeper vegetation layers or larger fuels, such as trees. Keep watch of your surroundings when working and recreating outdoors.
If you see smoke or flame in the forest and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025, there have been four wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 0.43 hectares (ha). Learn more about wildfire status on our website and view active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
If you plan to burn it, get your permit
Alberta’s wildfire season starts on March 1. This means that fire permits are now required for burning within the Forest Protection Area, except campfires. Fire permits are free and can be requested online. You may also request your fire permit by calling your local forestry office - Edson Forest Area 780-723-8527.
Onboarding seasonal firefighters
Our local forest officers have been busy in the past several weeks commencing seasonal firefighters in preparation for the upcoming fire season. The Edson Forest Area will see similar firefighter numbers as last year which will be pre-positioned across the area at the multiple day bases, and residing at the the two main bases located north of Hinton and in Nojack. There will be 64 firefighters that will be part of 2 unit crews and 6 helitack crews, Additional firetack crews will be available when the hazard requires them and 2 crew supervisors.
Firefighting efforts would not be possible without seasonal support staff. The area will receive 27 members that include lookout observers, camp supervisors, radio dispatchers, patrol persons, a logistics assistant, warehouse stock keeper, information officer and data entry person. They'll provide assistance to the 29 full-time staff that make up the Alberta Forestry division and the 7 finance and administration staff in the Edson Forest Area.
To learn more on how we fight wildfire, visit our website.
Julia has been a wildfire radio dispatcher with the Edson Forest Area for the past four seasons. She maintains communication with forestry personnel, firefighters and aircraft working in the field to provide direction from the duty officer and ensures they're checked in and accounted for safety purposes (April 9, 2025).
Prevent spring wildfires
Wildfire can start and spread anytime of year, always put out your campfire and never leave it unattended. To prevent spring wildfires, we urge residents and industry to return to their burn piles and ensure they are fully extinguished.
You can watch our video on how to prevent spring wildfires.
FireSmart your home, farm and acreage
Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow.
Flames aren’t the only threat. An estimated 90% of homes damaged or destroyed by wildfire are ignited by embers. By taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard, you can increase your properties’ resistance to wildfire.
Visit the FireSmart Alberta website for information on how to get your journey started.
Contact info
Caroline Charbonneau
780-740-1341
[email protected]
Published on April 9, 2025 4:51 pm