Whitecourt Area Update

The wildfire hazard in the Whitecourt Wildfire Management Area (WWMA) is low. Recent snow and rain has temporarily alleviated the dry conditions in the area. 

FIRE ADVISORY

The WWMA has declared a Fire Advisory. Recent snow and rain reduced the wildfire hazard risk but areas of dead, dry grass are very flammable; under windy conditions, a fire will spread quickly.

Issuance of fire permits for heavy fuels (i.e. burning brush piles, root piles and windrows) are now restricted until the Fire Advisory is lifted. New fire permits will continue to be issued depending on type of material being burnt and site conditions. To get your free fire permit call 780-778-7272.

Remember that a fire permit is required for all fires, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area

For more information, check www.Albertafirebans.ca

WILDFIRE UPDATE (April 21, 2015)

As of 9:30 am today, there is currently one wildfire in the WWMA, it has been turned over to the responsible party. Since April 1, 2015 the WWMA has recorded six wildfires which have burned just over 4 hectares. 

There are currently 12 fires burning in Alberta. Two are under control and 10 have been turned over to the responsible party.

There are two lightning wildfires still burning from July 2014. The boundaries of these wildfires have been extinguished, and they continue to burn in some spots safely within.

Since April 1, 2015, Alberta has recorded 123 new wildfires, which have burned just over 300 hectares.

PERMITS

All permit holders must check their permit conditions. If you are not burning under permit conditions, you can be fined up to $5,000 and held liable for all firefighting suppression costs under the Forest and Prairie Protection Act.

Fire permits are suspended in many parts of the province and no new permits are being issued. Albertans are encouraged to check www.albertafirebans.ca.

Unless conditions change, expect your next update on April 24, 2015.