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(The Canadian Press)

Province launches two new online wildfire information services

Apr 5, 2022 | 11:14 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The provincial government is making it easier for Albertans to access information on wildfires.

An online wildfire dashboard and fire permit portal will join the Alberta Wildfire app in an effort to put critical wildfire management and prevention information directly into the hands of people in the province.

Nate Horner, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development said, “Albertans want to be in the know during wildfire season and do their part to prevent human-caused wildfires.”

“Last year, 67 per cent of wildfires were caused by humans. These new tools will empower residents and visitors with the information they need to make smart decisions during wildfire season.”

WILDFIRE DASHBOARD

The new interactive wildfire dashboard displays statistics on the number of active wildfires in the province, sizes, locations, suspected causes and more.

The dashboard builds on the former wildfire status map by displaying the most frequently accessed information in one location.

FIRE PERMIT PORTAL

Albertans who live or recreate in the Forest Protection Area of the province can request a free fire permit using the new online fire permit portal.

Permits are required for burning activities other than campfires during wildfire season. They help focus firefighting resources where they are needed most. Fire permits help ensure that when smoke or a fire is reported, wildfire officials can determine whether it’s a wildfire or a permitted burn.

Each permit is unique and outlines the conditions and restrictions for someone’s burn, including location, wind speed, time and date of the burn and any suppression tools that are required. Permits can be suspended or cancelled in the event of a fire advisory, restriction or ban.

Fire permits can still be requested over the phone by calling your local forest area office.

Anyone living outside of the Forest Protection Area should contact their local municipality for more information about fire permits in their area.