With the wildfire danger around Edson rated at extreme, town officials are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution after crews had to respond to a vegetation fire on Sunday evening.
On June 8, around 8:27 p.m., the Edson Fire Department responded to reports of a vegetation fire and smoke in a wooded area between the landfill and the CN Rail access road.
The department reportedly responded with three command vehicles, one tender, one engine and a utility terrain vehicle. Additionally, an Alberta Wildfire helicopter in the area conducted bucket drops while an Alberta Wildfire attack crew also responded.
Officials say the preliminary investigation points to the fire being of human origin, allegedly originating from an encampment in the area. The Edson Fire Department and Edson RCMP are working together to investigate the incident.
“We thank our emergency responders for their quick action and remind the public that all open fires, including unauthorized campfires and the use of fireworks, are strictly prohibited during this period of heightened fire risk,” the town comments.
