As we step into the first real taste of summer this weekend, that familiar pull of the outdoors becomes almost irresistible. The forecast promises temperatures climbing into the mid-20s, perfect for camping trips and backyard fires. But this morning, I received a sobering reminder from Alberta Wildfire officials that has me rethinking my weekend plans.
“This time of year is critical for us,” Christie Tucker from Alberta Wildfire told me during our phone conversation yesterday. Her voice carried the weight of someone who’s witnessed firsthand how quickly enjoyment can transform into emergency.
The wildfire danger ratings across our province currently range from moderate to very high, with the Edmonton Forest Area sitting at high risk. It’s a situation that demands our attention, especially with memories of last year’s devastating fire season still fresh in our collective consciousness.
Last year was the worst wildfire season in Alberta’s recorded history. Over 1,088 wildfires burned through more than 2.2 million hectares of land – that’s roughly the size of El Salvador. The destruction left communities devastated and resources stretched thin.
Walking through Mill Creek Ravine yesterday, I noticed how the recent rain has greened things up beautifully. But Tucker explained something that hadn’t occurred to me: “While we’ve had some precipitation recently, those fine fuels – grasses and small shrubs – dry out extremely quickly.” All it takes is a few warm days, and what seems safely damp becomes dangerous tinder.
What’s particularly concerning is that approximately 67% of wildfires last year were caused by human activity. These weren’t lightning strikes or natural phenomena – they were entirely preventable.
“When heading out camping this weekend, ensure your campfire is fully extinguished before leaving,” Tucker emphasized. “Pour water on it, stir it, and then pour more water until it’s cool to the touch.”
The province has implemented fire restrictions and bans in various areas. Before heading out, Edmontonians should check the Alberta Fire Bans website. As of this morning, 43 fire restrictions and bans are in effect throughout Alberta.
Fire permits in the Forest Protection Area have been suspended until conditions improve. This means even if you previously had permission for controlled burns on your property, that permission is currently on hold.
I spoke with Martin Oracheski, a longtime Edmonton resident who lost his family cabin near Jasper in last year’s fires. “People don’t realize how fast it happens,” he told me, his voice still carrying traces of disbelief. “One moment everything’s fine, the next you’re evacuating with whatever you can grab in five minutes.”
The Alberta government has been preparing for this season, having hired approximately 1,000 firefighters and support staff. They’ve also secured additional aircraft and heavy equipment, learning from the challenges of previous years.
But as Tucker reminded me, “The most effective firefighting tool we have is prevention.”
Beyond campfires, there are other precautions worth taking. Off-highway vehicles can spark fires when debris builds up around hot spots like exhaust systems. Regular cleaning of these areas can prevent unintentional ignitions.
Even something as seemingly harmless as tossing a cigarette butt from a car window can have devastating consequences in these conditions.
For those staying in the city this weekend, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services reminds residents that backyard fire pits must comply with city bylaws. This includes having a mesh screen to prevent sparks and never leaving fires unattended.
“We’re not trying to dampen anyone’s enjoyment of our beautiful province,” Tucker said before we ended our call. “We just want everyone to be able to enjoy it for generations to come.”
As I write this from my desk overlooking the river valley, watching the trees sway in the warm breeze, I’m reminded of how precious and vulnerable our natural spaces are. The responsibility for
