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Overview
Wildfire season officially starts March 1 and runs until October 31 each year.
Wildfires can affect communities in forested or grassland areas, including urban green spaces like ravines and parks.
If a fire is near, protect yourself and loved ones by following directions from authorities and be prepared to evacuate.
Before a wildfire
Individuals and families should be prepared to take care of themselves for at least 72 hours.
During a wildfire
If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473).
If the fire is in your community, call 911.
After a wildfire
If you are ordered to evacuate, you cannot return to your community until authorities have declared it is safe to do so.
You should not re-enter your property if:
- authorities have not deemed if safe to do so
- any part of the structure has collapsed
Use extreme caution, especially if there are holes in the floor, broken glass or dangerous debris.
Prevent fires from restarting
- Check hot spots, like smouldering stumps and vegetation. Saturate these spots with water and monitor them closely.
- Check the roof and all exterior areas for sparks and embers.
- Check the attic and the house for hidden burning, sparks and embers.
- Monitor problem areas for several days.
Financial preparedness
- Speak to an insurance agent about your specific needs.
- Know your insurance options and policy limits. Make sure your home, vehicle, business and belongings are protected. Talk to your insurance agent to learn about what is not covered in your insurance policy.
- If possible, consider an emergency savings account to cover temporary expenses while you are out of your home.
- If you can, keep emergency cash handy in case banking services are unavailable.
- If you are evacuated, keep all receipts for additional expenses.
- Prepare a detailed list of all your belongings. For more information, see Home Inventory.
- Know the 7 steps for making a home insurance claim. For more information, see Claims Management.
- The Disaster Recovery Program may provide assistance for uninsurable loss and damage.
Staying informed
Staying informed during emergencies can save your life. Protect yourself and your loved ones by downloading the Alberta Emergency Alert app to receive critical, life-saving alerts.
You can also find out more information by contacting your community directly to find out where they post updated information during emergencies.
Before you travel, check Alberta 511 for current road conditions to help you arrive to your destination safely.
Helping others
Check with your community to learn how to help others during severe weather events. If you are concerned for someone’s safety, call:
- 211 if someone is in distress or in an unsafe place
- 911 if they’re unconscious or need medical help
Resources and translations
Education material you can read, print and download to share online and within your community. Translated versions are also available in українською (Ukrainian), عربي (Arabic), 简体中文 (Simplified Chinese), 繁體中文 (Traditional Chinese), ਪੰਜਾਬੀ (Punjabi), Deutsch (High German), Plautdietsch (Low German), Español (Spanish), Français (French) and Tagalog (Tagalog).
Videos
How can you prepare for a wildfire?
Alberta's wildfire season runs from March 1st to October 31st every year.
How can you prepare for an emergency or disaster without spending a lot of money?
Being prepared doesn't have to be costly. Learn how you can prepare without spending a lot of money.
Contact
Connect with the Alberta Emergency Management Agency:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 780-422-9000
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: [email protected]