The wildfire danger for the Whitecourt Forest Area is MODERATE.
Wildfires can still start in cooler weather, especially in dry and windy conditions. Always use caution in forested areas.
As of April 18, 2024, a FIRE RESTRICTION is in effect in the eastern region of the Whitecourt Forest Area and a FIRE ADVISORY is in effect in the the western region of the Whitecourt Forest Area. For a map of the restriction boundary, visit AlbertaFireBans.ca.
If you see smoke or flames in the forest, report it by calling 310-FIRE (3473).
FIRE RESTRICTION IN EFFECT
A fire restriction is now in effect for the eastern region of the Whitecourt Forest Area.
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.
FIRE ADVISORY IN EFFECT
A fire advisory remains in effect for the western region of the Whitecourt Forest Area.
Under this advisory:
- New permits will be considered on a case-by-case basis, only for essential burning.
- Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire is prohibited.
The fire restriction and advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve. To view restriction boundaries, visit AlbertaFireBans.ca.
Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.
When operating equipment, clear debris from moving parts, check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass. Keep watch of your surroundings and ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available. Equipment fires or work-related sparks, friction and hot exhaust can cause even small amounts of dry vegetation to ignite into a wildfire.
If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.
Fire permits required
During wildfire season, fire permits are required for any burning in the Forest Protection Area, other than a campfire.
Fire permits are free and help us track what's burning on the landscape. Visit firepermits.alberta.ca to request your fire permit online. You can also request your fire permit by calling the Whitecourt forestry office at 780-778-7153.
Check your winter burns
Now is the time to go back and check on your winter burning projects. Holdover fires are likely to occur this year due to dry conditions. A fire lit in the winter and left smouldering can burn under the snow and into the ground all winter long. Under the right conditions, these fires can re-emerge in the spring as wildfires. To prevent spring wildfires, check your winter burn site and ensure that all fires are completely extinguished.
Please get a fire permit for any burning project, other than a campfire, and always follow our safe burning guidelines.
Since January 1, 2024 there have been 10 wildfires reported in the Whitecourt Forest Area, which have all been extinguished.
Wildfire WWF-023-2023 is currently burning in the Whitecourt Forest Area. It is a carryover fire from the 2023 wildfire season. This wildfire is under control and being monitored by firefighters.
For more information on the current wildfire situation, visit Alberta Wildfire Status or download the AB Wildfire Status app for Apple and Android.
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Now hiring
Are you interested in joining the Alberta Wildfire team this summer? We are hiring a variety of positions for the 2024 wildfire season, including wildland firefighters. Apply today through the Alberta Jobs portal.
FireSmart
Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow. Visit the new FireSmart Alberta site to learn how taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard can increase your property's resistance to wildfire.
Download the Farm and Acreage Guide to Reducing the Risk From Wildfire for additional information.
CONTACT
1-866-FYI-FIRE
Provincial Information Officer
(780) 420-1968
RELATED INFORMATION
Websites:
- Alberta Wildfire
- Alberta Fire Bans
- FireSmart in Alberta
- Alberta Emergency Alerts
- Air Quality Health Index
- Wildfire Smoke and Your Health
- 511 Road Reports
- Emergency Preparation
Social media:
Apps: