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High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area is high. While cooler temperatures, shorter days and overnight moisture are helping conditions, warm, dry and windy days still increase the risk of wildfires. As vegetation begins to go dormant for winter, it becomes dry material that can ignite easily. Even on cooler days, wildfires can still start and spread quickly.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, there have been 94 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 1,091 hectares (ha).
There are currently two active wildfires in the area, both classified as under control. Firefighters are monitoring them closely and will respond as needed.
View active wildfires, their locations and statistics on the wildfire status dashboard.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction is in effect for parts of the Edson Forest Area. The affected area is predominantly east of Highway 40, with some exceptions.
Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands.
Prohibited:
- Outdoor wood fires on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas
- Any burning on private land, other than a campfire
- Fireworks and exploding targets
New fire permits will not be issued, and existing permits may be restricted or suspended
Allowed:
- Safe wood campfires in designated campgrounds or on private property, if contained within an engineered fire ring
- Indoor wood fires in devices with a chimney and spark arrestor
- Cooking, warming and lighting devices that are CSA-approved and used according to manufacturer’s instructions
- Open flame oil devices
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
Please visit Alberta Fire Bans to see map details of the impacted area.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory remains in effect for parts of the Edson Forest Area, covering areas west of Highway 40 that are not included in the current fire restriction.
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.
Please visit Alberta Fire Bans to see map details of the impacted area.
Do your part to prevent wildfires
This time of year, most wildfires are human-caused. Dry grasses combined with warm, windy days mean fires can still ignite and spread quickly.
If you're out hunting, camping, or enjoying the forest, please keep fire safety top of mind (if you're in an area permitted to have a fire as per the fire restriction). Here are some reminders:
- Never leave a campfire unattended.
- Always soak it, stir the ashes and soak it again until cool to the touch.
- Build campfires in safe areas, away from dry grass, leaves and other flammable materials.
- If using an off-highway vehicle (OHV), stop often to clear hot spots like mufflers and undercarriages.
- Check for fire advisories, restrictions, or bans at Alberta Fire Bans before burning.
Fall is a smart time to FireSmart
As the seasons change, it’s a great time to take simple steps around your home and property to reduce wildfire risk:
- Keep grass short around buildings, short grass slows down fast-moving grass fires.
- Store your woodpile at least 10 metres (30 feet) from your home and other buildings.
- Check powerlines and report trees or branches that need to be removed to your electricity provider.
- Prune trees by removing branches up to two metres from the ground and keeping three-to-six metres between tree tops.
- Inspect your chimney to ensure it’s up to code and fitted with spark arrestor screens.
- Clean your roof and eaves. Leaves, cones and twigs collect here and can ignite easily.
FireSmart isn’t just for spring, fall clean-up is another opportunity to protect your home and community from future wildfires.
Contact info
Allanah McLean
403-418-5023
[email protected]
Published on September 23, 2025 9:38 am