Peace River Area Update

Peace River Forest Area Update - April 23, 2024 at 8:20 p.m.

Posted on Tue, Apr 23, 2024

gfx-hsb-wildfiredangerupdate-high.jpg

The fire danger in the Peace River Forest Area is currently high. A fire restriction is in place due to dry conditions. Please use caution when spending time in forested areas. Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 

Firefighters are currently responding to a mutual aid wildfire southeast of Grimshaw (southwest of the Town of Peace River). See below for more information. 


Fire Restriction wide

Fire restriction

A fire restriction is in effect for central parts of the province, including throughout the Peace River Forest Area and beyond (see map below).

Under this restriction:
-       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.

A - Fire Restriction MO012_2024 zoomed 8x11


Check winter burns

Although there is still snow coverage in some areas, there are bare spots throughout the forest area that pose a risk for new wildfire starts. Return to winter burn sites to ensure they are completely extinguished. These fires can smoulder underground and flare up into a wildfire when conditions permit.


wildfire app (2)
 
Wildfire situation 

PMD003 - mutual aid wildfire

Alberta Wildfire is responding to a mutual aid wildfire in the Peace River area in support of local fire departments. The fire is located approximately 20 kilometres south-west of the Town of Peace River and approximately seven kilometres south-east of Grimshaw, towards the river. 

As of 8:00 p.m. on April 23, the fire was out of control and its size is estimated to be 400 hectares. Ground crews, aircraft and heavy equipment are on scene and are expected to work throughout the night.

Further updates will be provided as soon as more information is available.

Please visit the Municipal District of Peace 135's website for the latest information.

Since January 1, there have been 22 wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area that have burned more than 93 hectares.

There are currently seven wildfires burning in the Peace River Forest Area. Five are carryover wildfires from the 2023 wildfire season; two of these wildfires are under control and three are being held. There are two fires burning that started in 2024 - both are under control. All are being monitored by firefighters.

To view these wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire Status App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status page.


2024 seasonal recruitment

Now hiring

Are you interested in joining the Alberta Wildfire team this summer? We hire a variety of positions for the 2024 wildfire season. Apply today through the Alberta Jobs portal


426502001_412372424675857_5848351091756633569_n

FireSmart

Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow. Visit the new FireSmart Alberta site to learn how you can reduce the risk and negative impact of wildfire to your home, neighbourhood and community.

To learn more on how you can protect your home and structures from wildfire, download the Farm and Acreage FireSmart magazine.


CONTACT

Provincial Information Officer
(780) 420-1968

 

Join the conversation on FacebookTwitter or Instagram.

 

HELPFUL LINKS

Read More