The wildfire danger for the Whitecourt Forest Area is LOW.
Fire can still ignite but is not expected to spread to deeper vegetation layers or larger fuels, such as trees
A FIRE ADVISORY remains in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area.
A FIRE RESTRICTION is in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area, north of Swan Hills.
For a map of the restriction boundary, visit AlbertaFireBans.ca.
If you see smoke or flames in the forest, report it by calling 310-FIRE (3473).
PLANNED IGNITION
Saturday May 4th, 2024
A hazard reduction burn is planned for a section in the Whitecourt Forest Area. This work will take place between the Town of Whitecourt and the Blueridge area from noon until 7 pm today if safe burning conditions continue. Smoke may be visible in the area.
There will be one unit crew and one Helitack crew working in collaboration with the Blue Ridge Fire department as a cross-training opportunity.
Hazard reduction burns are used to remove extremely flammable fire fuel around communities, reducing the risk of wildfire. These burns provide training opportunities for crews to observe fire behavior and work with other agencies during controlled burning conditions.
FIRE ADVISORY IN EFFECT
Under this advisory:
- New permits will be considered on a case-by-case basis, only for essential burning.
- Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire is prohibited.
Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.
When operating equipment, clear debris from moving parts, check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass. Keep watch of your surroundings and ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available. Equipment fires or work-related sparks, friction and hot exhaust can cause even small amounts of dry vegetation to ignite into a wildfire.
The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
FIRE RESTRICTION STILL IN EFFECT
A fire restriction is in place for the the area north of Swan Hills in the Whitecourt Forest area.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are restricted, suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
- Safe wood campfires within fire rings in campgrounds are allowed.
Prohibited on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas:
- All outdoor wood fires.
- Fires fueled exclusively by charcoal briquettes.
- The use of fireworks and exploding targets.
Allowed in designated campgrounds on private and public land, designated day use areas and on privately owned land:
- Safe wood campfires.
- Backyard fire pits, charcoal briquette barbeques.
- Propane/ natural gas-powered appliances CSA approved or UL certified.
Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.
If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.
The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve.
To view restriction boundaries, visit AlbertaFireBans.ca.
For more information on the current wildfire situation, visit Alberta Wildfire Status or download the AB Wildfire Status app for Apple and Android.
CAMPFIRE SAFETY
SOAK IT, STIR IT, AND SOAK IT AGAIN
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Let the fire burn down before you plan on putting it out. Spread the embers within the fire pit, then add water or loose dirt, and stir.
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Expose any material still burning. Add more water and stir again until you can no longer see smoke or steam. Do not bury your fire as the embers may continue to smolder and can re-emerge as a wildfire.
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Repeat until your campfire is cool to the touch.
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If your fire is out, you should not be able to feel any heat from the ashes
EVACUATION PREPARDNESS
Are you prepared in case of an evacuation? In the event of an evacuation, individuals and families should be prepared to take care of themselves for at least 72 hours. Find out what you need to do this wildfire season to be prepared. Click here for more information.
OHV SAFETY
When operating equipment, clear debris from moving parts, check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass. Keep watch of your surroundings and ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available. Equipment fires or work-related sparks, friction and hot exhaust can cause even small amounts of dry vegetation to ignite into a wildfire.
If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.
FIRE PERMITS ARE REQUIRED
All burning within the Forest Protection Area of Alberta requires a burn permit, with the exception of campfire.
FIRESMART
Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow. Visit the new FireSmart Alberta site to learn how taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard can increase your property's resistance to wildfire.
Download the Farm and Acreage Guide to Reducing the Risk From Wildfire for additional information.
For more information, please contact:
Wildfire Information Officer
Randi-Marie Adams
(780) 706-5336
Email: randi.adams@gov.ab.ca
RELATED INFORMATION
Websites:
- Alberta Wildfire
- Alberta Fire Bans
- FireSmart in Alberta
- Alberta Emergency Alerts
- Air Quality Health Index
- Wildfire Smoke and Your Health
- 511 Road Reports
- Emergency Preparation
Social media:
Apps: