We have had a couple of days of very high fire weather. With so many lightning-caused fires occurring in such a short period of time in the North West Boreal region of Canada. It is important to limit human-caused wildfires. To report a wildfire call 310-fire.
WILDFIRE UPDATE 2pm - 06/24/18
The Peace River Forest Area has recorded 77 wildfires with a total of 5,225.78 hectares burned since wildfire season began March 1, 2018. There are currently 5 active wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area one is listed as Out of Control and 4 are under control.
PWF 77 – This out of control wildfire is located 3.5 km southeast of the Northgate Industries Ring Border Open Camp on the B.C. border, and is moving away from the facility. It is approximately 53 hectares in size. There are 36 firefighters and support staff, 2 helicopters and heavy equipment fighting this wildfire.
PWF 62 located South of Hage Lake is being held at 21 hectares in size.
PWF 34 is located west of the Hamburg area and is now Under control at 1,168.00 hectares in size.
PWF 47 is now Under Control at 3,992 hectares in size 20 kms west of Hotchkiss.
For your safety and the safety of firefighters, please stay clear of wildfire operations especially when aircraft are flying in the area. We appreciate your support.
Throughout the province of Alberta the 2018 wildfire season has seen 810 fires and burned a total of 30,804.51 hectares. See current wildfires here.
A Fire Advisory has been issued for the Peace River Forest Area due to continued dry conditions.
Fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis (for essential burning). Please call the Peace River Forest Area office at 780-624-6190 to find out how to obtain your fire permit.
What is allowed
Safe wood campfires in campgrounds (within fire rings), backyards, or random camping areas
Charcoal briquettes
Portable propane fire pits
Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
Catalytic or infrared-style heaters
Be mindful when operating quads in dry, grassy areas. Stop frequently and clear machine hotspots of grass and other debris that can heat up, fall to the ground, and start a wildfire.
Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.
The Fire Advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
The Forest and Prairie Protection Act include fines up to $287 for abandoning campfires as well as for using fireworks and exploding targets in forested areas. Learn more about updates to the act and fine amounts here.
Get a permit and follow the conditions. You can be held responsible if a fire escapes the burn permit area. You must obtain a fire permit if you live within the Forest Protection Area. Anyone living outside the Forest Protection Area can contact their municipality for information about local fire permit requirements. Find more information on safe burning practices for brush piles and windrows here. Remember you must evaluate the weather at your specific location.
Remember to do your part to prevent wildfires. Human caused wildfires are 100% preventable.
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