The 2017 wildfire season officially began on March 1st  

Protecting Albertans from the threat of wildfire is one of our highest priorities. That’s why March 1 is now legislated as the start of wildfire season. An earlier start to the wildfire season ensures firefighters are recruited, trained and positioned to respond quickly to any wildfires that happen in the early spring.  Under the same legislation, penalties for abandoning campfires, burning without a permit, or burning during firebans have increased.  

Do your part to prevent wildfires this spring 

Although it's cold and there is snow on the ground, the mild and dry winter conditions are favorable for holdover fires. A fire left smoldering can burn under the snow all winter long emerging as a wildfire in the spring.  Please be responsible and burn safely.

Check your winter brushpiles to ensure they are extinguished

All winter burning must be COMPLETELY extinguished immediately.  

When checking your brushpiles:

• spread around any remaining debris so you can probe the area for hotspots

• use your bare hand to feel for heat over the ash piles

• if you see smoke or feel any heat, the fire is still burning beneath the surface.

• douse any remaining hot spots with water and stir up the ashes.

A fire is not completely extinguished until there is absolutely no heat emanating from the ashes.

To report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473). 

Before you burn it, get your permit

As of March 1st, all burning activities in Alberta’s Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires, now require a fire permit. Fire permits are free and available at your local Agriculture and Forestry office.  You can call 780-624-6190 for more information or to obtain you free fire permit.

Careers and Contractors

Online Wildfire Orientation for all operators will continue to be distributed through contract holders.  If you require the link for online access, please email your request to peaceriver.logistics@gov.ab.ca.

Please visit www.wildfire.alberta.ca/jobs for more information on our many seasonal job opportunities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

• Bookmark the Peace River Wildfire Update and check for updates anytime or subscribe to have it emailed to you
• Download our app, available for Apple and Android devices.
• You can also find us on Facebook,Twitter 
  • Youtube 
  • or visit www.wildfire.alberta.ca

Or contact:

Crystal Burrows 

Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 618-6215

crystal.burrows@gov.ab.ca