Maskwacis, Alta. – With the arrival of spring and warmer temperatures comes the elevated risk of an early wildfire season. The Maskwacis RCMP and Fire Department urge the public to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their property and their families as part of the collective effort to minimize risks and respond swiftly when wildfires occur.
To help residents stay prepared, the Maskwacis RCMP and Fire Department offers the following safety tips:
- Keep up to date with wildfire alerts and evacuation notices through official channels such as Alberta Emergency Alert, local authorities, and news outlets. The RCMP will assist in the enforcement of evacuation orders and ensuring public safety.
- Have an emergency kit ready that includes essential supplies such as food, water, a flashlight, first aid items, medications, and important documents. This kit should be easily accessible and ready to go in case of an evacuation.
- Familiarize yourself with the local evacuation routes and safe areas. In the event of an evacuation order, follow instructions from local authorities and police officers who are working to keep everyone safe.
- Clear flammable debris from around your property, ensure firebreaks are in place, and maintain defensible space around your home to reduce the risk of wildfire spread.
- During active wildfire situations, the RCMP or Fire Dept may restrict access to affected areas. Do not attempt to travel through fire zones unless directed to do so by emergency services or law enforcement.
- The RCMP enforces road closures and evacuation orders to ensure the safety of the public. Failure to comply with these orders can put both individuals and emergency responders at risk.
“We are requesting that the public calls in any fire as soon as they can within the Maskwacis area” said Cst. Catlin Chiasson, the Maskwacis RCMP Public Information Officer. “Please be aware of all Off-Highway vehicles and motor vehicles on trails or in fields and how quick a fire could start.”
For more tips on how you can prepare, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.
