Abandoned campfire deemed cause of recent Canmore wildfire

Sep 14, 2020 | 1:43 PM

CALGARY, AB. — In spite of warnings, yearly education and increased fines, human activity and lack of attention continues to be a prevalent cause of wildfires in the province. Investigators are asking for the public’s help to find those responsibly for a recent wildfire near Canmore.

It’s been determined that an abandoned campfire in a popular spot for hikers and and hunters, was the cause of last week’s Devil’s Head wildfire north of Canmore, which burned more than 676 hectares of forest.

The wildfire was reported on September 4 by members of the public calling 310-FIRE, and it’s believed people who were in the area between Aug. 30 and Sept. 4 may be responsible. If you have information, the toll-free tip line number is 833-999-3473.

Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, notes, Albertans have to do better.

“There’s no excuse for leaving a campfire unattended. Before you leave, ensure it’s completely extinguished: soak it, stir it and soak it again. Last year, 71 per cent of wildfires were caused by humans and were entirely preventable.”

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In April 2019, the government announced higher fines for non-compliance to reflect the seriousness of the measures.

Fines for failing to extinguish a campfire can range from $600 to $840. The current fine for an abandoned campfire is $600. Anyone found responsible for starting a wildfire may have a court date set to face additional charges and fines.

Properly extinguish your campfire

Let the fire burn down before you plan to extinguish it. Spread the embers within the fire pit, then add water or loose dirt and stir.
Expose any materials still burning, then add more water and stir again until you can no longer see smoke or steam. Do not bury your campfire, as the embers may continue to smolder and can re-emerge as a wildfire.
Repeat until your campfire is cool to the touch. You should not be able to feel any heat from the ashes.

Before heading outdoors, check for fire bans across the province by visiting albertafirebans.ca. To report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473) toll-free from anywhere in Alberta.

by Dori Modney