The Government of Alberta is encouraging all Albertans to be "prepared and proactive" with the onset of wildfire season on March 1.

In a joint statement on Feb. 28, Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen noted that a major "key" to stopping wildfires is preventing them from occurring in the first place.

"It is essential that every Albertan understands their role in preventing wildfires, which is why we are increasing public awareness campaigns and promoting safe practices for outdoor activities, while also enforcing fire bans as necessary," said Loewen, in a released statement. "Every small effort counts in preventing wildfires and protecting our communities and natural resources."

Loewen notes that the province is focusing on a three-pronged approach to wildfire season this year: prevention, mitigation and readiness to respond.

"For situations where prevention is not enough, we have strengthened our wildfire mitigation efforts," Loewen continued.

Mitigation efforts included controlled burns, the creation of firebreaks, and managing forest vegetation to reduce or eliminate fuel for fires.

"Fireguard projects are currently underway in the Bow Valley near Canmore, as well as Cypress Hills Provincial Park, Hinton, Whitecourt and Slave Lake," said Loewen. "In 2024, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) funded 38 FireSmart projects across the province worth more than $3.4 million. These measures focus on wildfire prevention and mitigation, educating communities on fire safety and supporting local emergency response plans."

Continuing, Loewen noted that Alberta has "some of the best firefighting personal in the world," and are highly trained, well-equipped and "ready to respond to any incidents."

"We continue investing in the technology and resources needed to support firefighting efforts through Budget 2025, which provides $160 million in base funding for wildfire personnel, equipment, training and contracts for aircraft, dozers and night vision-equipped helicopters," continued Loewen. "This ensures we can mobilize significant resources quickly and effectively when needed. I have every confidence in our wildfire teams and their ability to meet the challenges ahead."

On a positive note, in contrast to the 2024 wildfire season, the 2025 wildfire season is beginning with 10 active fires in the province. A year ago, 60 fires burned. 

"This is in large part thanks to the incredible work of Alberta香蕉视频直播檚 wildland firefighters and support teams, the resilience of Alberta香蕉视频直播檚 communities, and to the province香蕉视频直播檚 historic investments, preparations and quick response to last year香蕉视频直播檚 wildfires," concluded Loewen.

"As Albertans take the time to enjoy our incredible outdoor opportunities this year, it is important to remember we all have a shared responsibility in preventing wildfires. I encourage everyone to follow fire bans and restrictions, remember you must have a permit for any burning in the Forest Protection Area, and follow the soak it, stir it and soak it again method to ensure your campfires are extinguished completely. By working together, we will be ready to face whatever the 2025 wildfire season brings.香蕉视频直播�