The Alberta wildfire season runs until October 31, 2020 (Photo: Government of Alberta)

By Justin Goulet

Wildfire Season

Alberta wildfire season officially underway

Mar 2, 2020 | 9:46 AM

The wildfire season in Alberta has officially begun.

The provincial government said the early start is ahead by about one month from other jurisdictions, with research showing that wildfires are starting earlier and lasting longer.

“Alberta’s early fire season means our firefighters are trained and positioned throughout the province sooner,” stated a release issued by the province.

The season officially began on Sunday, March 1.

The government said almost all spring wildfires are caused by human activity and the fires are “completely preventable”.

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Generally, human-caused fires are accidental – often started by an out-of-control campfire or a spark by an off-road vehicle. In light of dry conditions, grass, twigs, leaves and branches can provide fuel for fast-moving grassfires.

The province stated that while arson is a criminal offense, any unsafe fire-related behaviors can result in high fines or charges for the person or people involved.

“Most wildfires are preventable. More than 70 per cent of Alberta wildfires last year were caused by humans – and the McMillan wildfire near Slave Lake was started by arson. We will continue to promote prevention, provide adequate funding and improvements to forest management,” said Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Devin Dreeshen, in the release.

During the wildfire season, fire permits are required for any burning expect campfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Details on that zone can be seen here.

Thanks to permits, firefighters are able to know exactly where planned burning is being done.

Permits can also help prevent false calls for service. That ensures fighters are ready for when real wildfire response is needed.

Fire permits can be requested from any Agriculture and Forestry office and are available for free.

Last fire season, 989 wildfires burned over 883,411 hectares in Alberta. If you spot a wildfire burning in the forest, report it at 310-FIRE (3473).

The wildfire season is in effect in Alberta until October 31, 2020.