While we're all busy scraping our windshields and shovelling snow from our driveways, Alberta wildfire officials have something else on their minds. 

Firefighters and support staff are already training and readying equipment and aircraft so they can be fully operational for the start of this year's fire season on March 1st.

After Fort McMurray had to be evacuated on May 3rd, 2016 after a wildfire swept through the community, and with the brutal fire season the province of B.C. experienced last year, you can't blame them for being ready early.  

More than 100 firefighters are working across the province and more are being added every week to ensure that proper resources are in place and the province is fully ready for when fire breaks out.

Oneil Carlier, Alberta's Minister of Agriculture and Forestry says the protection of Alberta's communities is one of the highest priorities the province has, but they can't do it alone.    

"Our firefighters will be ready to fight wildfires when they start.  We are ready, but we need every Albertan's help.  We're asking everyone to do their part in preventing fires."

Starting March 1st, fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.  Getting a permit ensures that firefighters know exactly where burning is being done in the forest, helping to prevent false calls which can take firefighters away from a potential real fire response.  

Fire permits are free of charge and can be requested from any Agriculture and Forestry office.

In 2017 in Alberta, 1,231 fires were responsible for burning more than 49,000 hectares in the province.  From March 1st to October 31st, 2017, 789 fires were human-caused.  

More than 68 tickets and written warnings were given to Albertans last year for burning without a permit or leaving a campfire unattended.

If you see a wildfire burning in the forest you can report it toll-free at 310-FIRE (3473).

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