In the spring (fire season begins on March 1 in Alberta), there is an increased risk of fire because vegetation in all areas (grass, dead leaves, and dry conifers) is at its driest, which is better fuel for a fire. Once the grass and trees begin to get moisture and become green the risk of fire decreases significantly, but there is always a fire risk when vegetation is present.
Different types of naturalized areas have different risks of fire, and it depends on the fuel load. Grasslands and deciduous forest stands have less fuel loads because grasses have smaller fine parts and they have a lower overall fire risk and intensity when fire does occur because they burn quickly and cannot hold a fire for long. Deciduous trees such as Aspen trees, are considered fire-resistant plants because they do not readily ignite. Coniferous (pine or spruce) tree stands and longer grass burn more quickly than shrubs and deciduous trees. In the thick wooded wildlands, there are more fuels and tree resins which allow fires to burn for longer and at a higher temperature, which is more dangerous.
Fire risk is reduced within the city as a result of increased citizen reporting, water sources accessible throughout the city, and accessibility of sites via Edmonton’s road and path network allow Edmonton Fire Rescue Services to respond quickly to incidents within the city.
We all have an important role to play in reducing fire risk. Citizens can help prevent fires in naturalized areas by:
- Calling 911 if they see smoke or fire
- Refraining from smoking in natural, naturalized and vegetation-covered areas
- Safely disposing cigarettes in fire safe containers
- Observing all fire ban rules by not using unauthorized fire pits in parks or natural areas
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