Wildfire in Airdrie averted but hazard remains high

The dry prairie surrounding the City of Airdrie does not pose as much of a fire danger as the tall pines of the Boreal Forest surrounding Fort McMurray but the threat is still very real.  Wind can whip a blaze into a raging ball of fire in a matter of minutes, as we have recently witnessed up north.

Fire extinguished

Tinder dry conditions throughout the province have resulted in hundreds of fires and Airdrie is just as vulnerable.  Recently, two acres of grassland on the south west side of the city burned on April 19.  Fortunately, the fire didn’t burn any Airdrie homes, outbuildings or cause any harm to people or wildlife.  The fire took three hours for firefighters to extinguish with 11 personnel and five pieces of equipment in the evening, just as the sun was setting.  It was to the west of Chinook Winds Drive on the south side of Yankee Valley Boulevard, an area where there are a lot of new homes under construction and were existing homes are located.  It was in an area where there were lots of trees and dry underbrush, surrounded by plenty of dry grass.  That evening of April 19, it was also windy and the location was difficult to get to and to get water out to.

This fire happened nine days after a fire advisory had been issued by the City of Airdrie, and of course, now there is a complete province-wide fire ban.  Any fires, even in a controlled backyard fire pit, are not allowed.  The use of ATVs is also being discouraged, although not banned, as sparks from the engine may start a fire particularly in forested areas.

So, where would Airdrie residents have found themselves should that relatively small fire of April 19 had gotten out of hand?  A fire blamed on carelessness, according to the Airdrie Fire Department, and disregard for the crazy hot spring we’ve been having in Southern Alberta which has resulted in ultra-dry conditions. 

Residents who live on the perimeter of the city can help the dry situation by taking a number of preventative measures.

Be Aware

Those living in Airdrie’s extreme communities have the wonderful views of the country side, which is an excellent spot from which to spot smoke on the horizon.  Grass fires caught early can be put out early, too.  Be on the lookout.

Clear Underbrush

Like the wildfires in the north, the undergrowth among the trees is providing extra fuel for the fire. If there are large tree stands, like the one involved in the April 19 fire, call the rural municipality or the City of Airdrie and suggest the underbrush be removed.  Any garbage that has accumulated over the winter months should be removed as well.

Comply with fire bans

A simple cigarette but mindlessly discarded, an ember from a charcoal barbecue – often in these dry conditions it doesn’t take much to start a small fire which can become out of control under windy conditions.