Technology and Research
New tools and studies improving wildfire understanding and control.
Fire Prediction Models — Scientists use satellite imagery, weather data, and AI-based models to predict wildfire behavior and risk zones.
Forest Management Techniques — Programs focus on thinning dense forests, removing deadwood, and restoring fire-resistant tree species.
Drones & Remote Sensing — Advanced technology is used for real-time monitoring and assessing fire spread.
Fun Fact — 2019 was the worst year 2019 with over 800,000 hectares burned, 1.2% of Alberta’s land mass and approximately 600,000 football fields
Wildfires in Alberta have surged due to global warming, creating dry conditions that fuel lightning and human-caused fires, often linked to negligence like unattended campfires and discarded cigarettes.
Alberta uses drones, AI, predictive modeling, aerial tech, and FireSmart initiatives, including vegetation management, public education, and emergency planning, to reduce wildfire risks and enhance resilience. These resources also help to prevent wildfires early, protecting wildlife, biodiversity, and communities by reducing destruction and enabling faster responses.
Community & Infrastructure Protection
Preparing people and places to withstand wildfire impacts.
Wildfire-Resilient Building Codes – Encouraging fire-resistant materials in construction, such as metal roofing and ember-resistant siding.
Firebreaks & Fuel Management – Clearing vegetation near homes, roads, and critical infrastructure to slow fire spread.
Climate Adaptation Strategies – Policies that integrate wildfire management into long-term climate change plans.
A couple of case examples that we researched were the 2023 East Prairie Métis Settlement Fire and the 2024 Jasper fire. If you would like more information about those, please click below.
Prevention Strategies
Methods to reduce wildfire risk before ignition occurs.
FireSmart Program – A national initiative adopted in Alberta that promotes wildfire-resilient communities through education, fuel management, and community planning.
Public Awareness Campaigns – Programs like Alberta Wildfire’s “Safe Burning Practices” educate residents and industries about fire risks and responsible behavior.
Restrictions & Bans – The Alberta government enforces fire bans and off-highway vehicle restrictions in high-risk areas during dry conditions.
Industry Regulations – Forestry, oil, and gas industries must follow strict wildfire prevention rules, such as properly disposing flammable materials and fire watch protocols.
Suppression and Response
How Alberta responds when wildfires break out.
Rapid Response Teams & Aerial Firefighting – Alberta has a fleet of water bombers, helicopters, and air tankers that respond quickly to wildfires.
Controlled & Prescribed Burns – Fire management teams conduct planned burns to reduce fuel loads (dead trees, dry vegetation) and prevent large-scale fires.
Incident Command System (ICS) – Alberta uses a standardized emergency response system to coordinate firefighters, agencies, and equipment during wildfires.
Interagency Cooperation – Collaboration with federal agencies (e.g., Parks Canada), neighboring provinces, and international firefighting teams.
We created this mind map to represent key ideas and resources related to wildfire prevention. It helps organize our approach and highlights important focus areas at a glance.