Being properly prepared for what’s expected to be another challenging wildfire season in Alberta must be a collaborative effort between officials and Edmontonians.
That was the message from Edmonton’s fire chief Tuesday, who reiterated the city is prepared for the increased fire risk while urging residents to do their part.
BACKGROUND: Drought, heat raise risk of repeat of last summer’s record-breaking wildfires
Persistent drought and months of above-average temperatures have raised the risk of a repeat of last year’s record-breaking wildfires.
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services Chief Joe Zatylny says the city has “procedures in place” to always “remain at the ready.” Officials are constantly monitoring wildfire activity and conditions as they determine if fire advisories or bans are needed, he says.
But Zatylny adds Edmontontians must play a part in keeping their communities safe.
He explains any illegal use of fireworks, improper use of fire pits and the dangerous disposal of smoking materials can lead to accidental wildfires.
“We want Edmontonians to know that their actions can have consequences on their own property, those of their neighbours, their community and across the city,” he said. “There can also be consequences to human safety and, in some cases, human life.”
No fire bans or restrictions are currently in effect for the Edmonton area. A fire ban was issued for Leduc County last week.
Zatylny says small actions can have big repercussions. He recommends residents have a 72-hour emergency bag prepared at all times, and to clean yards from debris because of the fire risk.
“We want Edmontonians to know the actions they can take to prevent wildfires,” said the fire chief.
He says City of Edmonton officials are preparing for the possibility of having to support evacuees from other communities, as the city did last year.
WATCH: Alberta Wildfire amps up preparations for the 2024 wildfire season
Alberta saw a total of 1,088 wildfires that burned about 22,000 square kilometres from March 1 to Oct. 31, 2023. The five-year average for area burned is 2,262 square kilometres.
The 2023 fire season was also Canada’s worst on record, burning more than 15 million hectares and forcing more than 230,000 people from their homes.
–With files from Laura Krause
