Whitecourt Area Update

Whitecourt Forest Area Wildfire Update - Sept. 11, 2018

Posted on Fri, Sep 07, 2018

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WILDFIRE DANGER
 

Cooler temperatures mixing with rain are creating a low wildfire danger in the Whitecourt Forest Area. Although it is harder for a wildfire to start, it is always important to take the time to prevent wildfire.


WILDFIRE SITUATION (1000hrs)

Whitecourt Forest Area

  • There are wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area.
  • Since March 1, 2018, there have been 52 wildfires; with a total area burnt of 14.00 hectares.

Province of Alberta

  • There are 15 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
    • Current wildfire statusare Being Held (BH), 10 are Under Control (UC), and 4 have been turned over to the responsible party.
  • Since March 1, 2018, Alberta has recorded 1,218 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area; with a total area burnt of 59,780.00 hectares.

For more information, visit the Alberta Wildfire status map.


HELP PREVENT WILDFIRE

Campfires and off-highway vehicles can start wildfires, follow these tips to reduce the risk:

  • Always monitor the fire so it doesn't escape, and when finished, soak it, stir it, and soak it again. Click here for more campfire safety tips. Please be aware, abandoning a campfire can lead to fines, learn more.

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  • Clean your off-highway vehicle before, during and after your ride. Learn more.

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FIRE PERMITS ARE REQUIRED

Until October 31, free fire permits are required for any burning (except campfires) within the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Permits help firefighters know where planned burning is taking place, leaving them ready to respond to new wildfires.

If you need a fire permit in the Whitecourt Forest Area, call 780-778-7272.

If you burn without a permit, or outside of the permit conditions, your fire is a wildfire. Learn more.


NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE YOUR PROPERTY FIRESMART

As the leaves start to fall, it's time to clean the roof, rake the lawn, and gather fire wood...did you know each impacts how FireSmart your property is?

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Here are a few quick steps you can take to help reduce the threat of wildfire impacting your property:

  • ensure your roof is free of needles, leaves and over-hanging branches
  • clean eaves, vents, and soffits; ensure they are enclosed
  • store fire wood at least 10 meters away from any structure

Learn more through YouTubeFaceBook, or learn how to do your own home assessment.


 ALBERTA WILDFIRE INFORMATION

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Unless conditions change, your next wildfire update will Sept. 14, 2018 
 
Shannon Stambaugh
Wildfire Information Officer
Phone: 780.706.5336
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