The wildfire hazard is HIGH for the Lac La Biche Forest Area, and the FIRE ADVISORY remains in place.
The forecast for today is for a high of 22 with humibity of 25% and light winds at SW15 km/hr. The next few days are expected to continue this warming trend. This warm, dry weather presents excellent drying conditions for the forest area and means the grass and leaves will burn very easily.
We had several grass fires on Friday night and Saturday. We've had a total of 58 wildfires in the area this wildfire season. There are currently two wildfires in the area. One is under control and one has been turned over to the landowner to extinguish.
We have ten crews, six helicopters, two dozer units, several water trucks and other heavy equipment in the area, ready to action new wildfires.
As the weekend comes to an end, please make sure all your campfires have been extinguished before you leave them. If you're working in the forest this week, be mindful of the danger from operating quads under these forest conditions. Muskeg, grass and other debris that builds up on your machines will heat up as you're driving. This smouldering debris can fall from your machine and start a wildfire along your path. Please stop frequently and clear your machines of debris. Stop on the smouldering debris, or soak it, so it doesn't start a grass fire.
Thanks for doing your part to prevent wildfire. Happy May everyone.
For more information, please contact:
Leslie Lozinski
Forest Information Officer
780-623-9758