As we head into the long weekend it is important that everyone exercise caution when camping or recreating in forested areas. Remember to check the hot spots on your Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) and remove debris before and after use. Never leave a campfire; Always soak it, stir it and soak it again.
As hunting season approaches it is important to remember that off-highway vehicle exhausts are extremely hot, and can quickly reach temperatures of over 200 Celsius. These temperatures can dry out even wet, muddy debris quickly. This smoldering debris can potentially start a wildfire when it drops from the vehicle into dry grass. Ride debris free and lower your risk of starting a wildfire.
Since March 1, 2018 there have been 35 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area that have burned approximately 13 hectares. For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca. Provincially, the 2018 wildfire season has seen 1, 176 fires burning more than 58,610.07 hectares.
ALBERTA WILDFIRE INFORMATION
Get the most up-to-date wildfire information for the entire province, download the free Alberta Wildfire Android or Apple products.
Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer
Mobile: (780) 832 7235
kelly.burke@gov.ab.ca