The wildfire danger rating in the Lac La Biche Forest Area is now MODERATE.
The May long weekend is typically when we see the highest number of human-caused wildfires. Last year in Alberta, 61 wildfires occurred over the long weekend. The five-year average for this weekend is 87 wildfires. Nearly 92 per cent of the wildfires that happen over the May Long weekend are human-caused.
A campfire should never be left unattended, and there should always be a responsible person in attendance to keep fire under control at all times and fully extinguish it before leaving.
Prior to leaving, properly extinguish the campfire by soaking it, stirring it and soaking it again. To do this, let the fire burn down as much as possible. Spread the embers, add water or loose dirt and stir. Next, expose any materials still burning, then add more water and stir again until you can no longer see smoke or steam. Repeat until your campfire is cool to the touch. You should not be able to feel any heat from the ashes.
WILDFIRE UPDATE
There are currently no wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area.
Since March 1, there have been 81 wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area, burning a total of 167.76 ha.
The Lac La Biche Forest Area has a number of wildland firefighting crews, eight helicopters and various pieces of heavy equipment available to fight any wildfires.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE
Since March 1 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been 303 wildfires, burning a total of 923.06 ha.
For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca
OHV SAFETY
If you are operating an off-highway vehicle, remember to stop often and check hotspots. Exhaust systems can heat up in excess of 204 degrees, hot enough to fry an egg and start a wildfire.
NEW ALBERTA WILDFIRE APP
Did you know Alberta Wildfire just launched a brand new app to keep you up-to-date with the wildfire situation in the province?
Download the new app today and get access to accurate, real-time information on wildfires in your area. You can also find information on fire advisories, restrictions and bans across the province and much more.
The old app will be disabled in the next few weeks, so make sure to download the new one soon.
Available for Apple and Android.
Thanks for doing your part to prevent wildfire!
For more information, please contact:
Provincial Information Officer
780-420-1968
wildfireinfo@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: