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Westlock County Protective Service Wildfire Advisory Notice

Westlock County Protective Service Wildfire Advisory Notice

In preparation for warmer weather, re-visit any winter burn sites to ensure those fires have been completely extinguished. 

Many people aren’t aware that improperly extinguished fires can actually burn underground for months on end.

These smoldering fires can resurface during the spring months on hot, dry and windy days, quickly becoming an out of control wildfire.

When checking your winter burn sites, spread around any remaining debris so you can probe the area for hotspots. Use your bare hand to feel for heat over the ash piles. 

If you see smoke or feel any heat, the fire is still burning beneath the surface. Douse any remaining hot spots with water and stir up the ashes. A fire is not completely extinguished until there is absolutely no heat emanating from the ashes. 

Preventing Wildland Fires

The risk of wildland fires is high during the warmer months in Alberta. Wildland fires in forested areas and grasslands are of even greater concern when they burn near residential, industrial or agricultural developments. Report any suspicious activity or fires immediately. 

Most people know to be careful with matches and cigarettes and to follow safe burning practices when cleaning up garbage and debris. Listed below are additional steps that homeowners in wildland or grassland settings can take to safeguard their homes against wildfire. 

  • Contact your insurance company and confirm you have the appropriate fire and Wildfire coverage before it happens!
  • Clear the roof and gutters of needles and leaves. 
  • Keep the area within 10 metres of buildings free of flammable vegetation. This fuel-free zone provides firefighters with a defensible space to assist in stopping a wildfire's spread. 
  • Vegetation beyond the 10 metre defensible zone should be species that are less flammable like Aspen, Birch, Poplar and the Western Larch. 
  • Situate firewood, combustible debris, wooden outbuildings and fences at least 10 metres from buildings. 
  • Locate burning barrels at least 15 metres from buildings or flammable material. Barrels must be screened and in good order to control sparks. 
  • Keep vegetation and combustible material away from propane tanks. 
  • Contact your utility company to clear vegetation within a tree length of overhead power lines. 
  • Keep firefighting tools on hand. A shovel, rake, sprinkler, roof-top ladder and hose that reaches to the roof are essential. 

Check with local authorities before burning debris outside. If you do decide to burn brush, closely supervise the fire, keep a garden hose running nearby and keep children and pets far away from the area.

Visit Fire Services for more information