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Wildfire update

Edson Forest Area - September 03, 2025

Very High wildfire danger

The fire danger in the Edson Forest Area is very high due to the expected warm weather for the duration of the week. Wildfires can easily start and spread in these conditions. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could potentially spark a wildfire. 

Fire advisory

 
A fire advisory is in effect for the Edson Forest Area due to the continued warm temperatures that create conditions where wildfires can start easily and spread quickly. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could potentially spark a wildfire.

 Under this advisory

  • Existing fire permits are valid. Permit holders must follow all safe burning conditions outlined on the permit.
  • New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis for essential burning only.
  • Safe campfires are allowed.

Prohibited

  • Any burning without a valid fire permit is prohibited, except for campfires.
 
When operating machinery like off-highway vehicles or farm equipment, always carry firefighting tools such as a shovel, fire extinguisher and a pail. Never leave a campfire unattended, and make sure it is fully extinguished by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again. Stay informed of fire restrictions and fire bans in your area by checking Alberta Fire Bans.

Wildfire situation

Since January 1, there have been 89 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 1,090 hectares (ha). 

There are currently 2 active wildfires and they're classified as under control. These wildfires may emit smoke. Firefighters are monitoring these wildfires for activity and will respond accordingly. View active wildfires, their locations and statistics on the wildfire status dashboard

Harvesting operations 

To operate safely in the forest area we recommend: 

  • Maintaining your equipment by continuously inspecting for any wear and tear
  • Ensuring machine parts are well lubricated to reduce sparking potential
  • Checking fluid levels on equipment like oil, coolant and other fluids to avoid overheating the engine components
  • Stopping often to cool machines down during hot days
  • Acknowledging that hay bales can spontaneously combust under hot and dry conditions. To avoid accidently starting a wildfire consider baling outside the peak burning hours of (3pm-7pm) as this is when wildfires are more likely to occur and spread quickly
  • Always carry firefighting equipment with you like a fire extinguisher, shovel, and water vessel

Hunting season 

If you're heading out into the forest to hunt and you're having a campfire we ask that you keep your campfires small, safe, and always attended. Before leaving the site or going to bed, ensure your campfire is completely extinguished. Soak the fire with water, stir the ashes, and soak it again to ensure it’s out. The fire is fully extinguished when you can no longer feel any heat from the ashes. 

Smoke 

There may be lingering smoke in the area due to wildfires outside of the Edson Forest Area. Please call Health Link at 811 if you’re having respiratory problems due to smoke. Visit FireSmoke Canada to see where wildfire smoke is coming from.

Contact info

Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]

Published on September 3, 2025 11:47 am