A wildfire dashboard and fire permit portal join the Alberta Wildfire app as key technologies that put critical wildfire management and prevention information directly into the hands of Albertans, say forestry administrators.
The new wildfire dashboard provides up-to-date wildfire information at the click of a button, according to the developers who add that the interactive tool displays important statistics on the number of active wildfires in the province, sizes, locations and suspected causes.
The dashboard builds on the former wildfire status map by displaying the most frequently accessed information in one convenient location.
The online fire permit portal allows Albertans living or recreating in the Forest Protection Area of the province to request a free fire permit.
Permits are required for burning activities other than campfires during wildfire season and help focus firefighting resources where they are needed most. Fire permits help ensure that when smoke or fire is reported, wildfire officials can determine whether this is a wildfire or a permitted burn.
Each permit is unique and outlines the restrictions and conditions for your burn, including location, wind speed, time and date of burn and any suppression tools required. Permits may be suspended or cancelled in the event of a fire advisory, restriction or ban, according to officials.
Fire permits can still be requested over the phone by calling your local forest area office.
Albertans living outside the Forest Protection Area should contact their local municipality for more information about fire permits in their area.