Snow on the ground was not enough to stop the first grass fire of the season in the County of Vermilion River (CVR).
The Vermilion Fire and Rescue Society responded Tuesday afternoon to a fast-moving fire south of the McNabb Wildlife Sanctuary. Firefighters arrived to find roughly 10 acres burning and spreading quickly into dense bush and shrubs.
Crews worked alongside local farmers to hold the perimeter, catching the fire at its head before closing in on the flanks.
Fire Chief: 20 acres involved, crews in final stages
According to CVR Protective Services, Fire Chief Anton Krys confirmed approximately 20 acres were involved in the blaze. By 6:30 p.m., firefighters were in the final stages of overhaul.
Low-level water pooling in the area complicated the response, officials noted.
The call marks the first outside fire of the season for the county.
Burn permits: check yours now
County Protective Services is reminding residents to check any previous burn permits and confirm those fires are fully extinguished.
RCMP: Make your emergency plan before you need it
With wildfire season now underway, Alberta RCMP is urging households to prepare emergency plans before a disaster strikes.
Key steps include:
- Know your household’s specific needs – factor in older family members, children, pets, mobility issues and medical requirements.
- Plan your communications – decide how family members will reach each other during an emergency, including if you are in different locations.
- Map your exit – identify evacuation routes, meeting points and the fastest way out of your home.
- Pack a grab-and-go bag – include water, non-perishables, medications, hygiene items, copies of important documents, a first-aid kit, phone charger, power bank, flashlight, batteries, an emergency blanket, extra cash and seasonal clothing.
- Know where things are – every household member should know where the emergency kit, fire extinguishers and utility shutoffs are located.
- Have an out-of-town contact – identify someone far enough away that they likely would not be affected by the same emergency.
RCMP also urges residents to learn emergency plans at their workplace and children’s schools, and to follow instructions from police and first responders during any evacuation – avoiding shortcuts that could lead into blocked or unsafe areas.
Alerts vs. orders: know the difference
An evacuation alert means a threat is possible or developing. Residents should prepare to leave immediately.
An evacuation order is mandatory. Leave the area.
Practice your plan regularly so your household can move quickly if the time comes.
For more emergency preparedness information, Alberta RCMP can be found on Facebook, X and YouTube.
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