Many people are surprised to learn that wildfires can start even in winter.

When snow cover is light or patchy, dry grass and vegetation remain exposed—creating ideal fuel for flames. Sparks from campfires, burn barrels, or agricultural burns can easily ignite these dry materials and lead to a winter wildfire.

Winter burning also poses another risk: poor visibility. Smoke tends to linger close to the ground during cold weather, sometimes traveling long distances and creating dangerous driving conditions. The safest burning conditions are usually on mild days with average temperatures and little to no wind.

If you plan to burn this winter:

• Check weather forecasts for snow cover and wind conditions before lighting any fire.
• Avoid burning when an inversion is present or expected, as smoke will remain trapped near the ground.
• Consult your municipality or local authority if you’re planning larger burns near communities or roads.
• Manage burn projects closely to limit total burning time and minimize smoke output.
• Burn debris in smaller stages so you can adjust to changing weather conditions.
• Ensure solid snow cover (at least 15 cm) in the area before starting your burn.

Winter brush piles and windrows

Winter can be an ideal time to burn brush piles, windrows, and other debris. When there is sufficient snow on the ground, the risk of a fire spreading is greatly reduced. However, safe burning practices remain essential.

When burning in winter:

• Keep the right tools and plenty of water nearby to control your fire.
• Use caution if drought conditions are high or extreme, as fires can burn deep underground.
• Insert a metal rod into the ashes to check for hidden heat; if the rod feels hot or warm, the fire is still smouldering.
• Fully extinguish the fire by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again. Use heavy equipment if needed to expose and douse underground hot spots.

To report a wildfire in a forested area, call 310‑FIRE (3473).