High Level Forest Area - April 11, 2025
The wildfire danger across the High Level Forest Area (HLFA) remains low – given cooler conditions and some precipitation over the past 24 hours. This can change quickly, however, and is likely to climb in the coming weeks as warmer conditions continue to melt the snow – exposing large areas of dead and dry grass, which can support fast-moving wildfires, especially on warm and windy days.
Fire permits now required – get one online or by phone
As we are now in the official wildfire season (Mar. 1 to Oct. 31), fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Fire permits are free and can be requested from the HLFA main office at 780-926-5407 or online on the fire permit webpage. With seasonal staff in place as of mid-April, we should be able to respond quickly to your request.
Footner Lake Fire Base now open
With the fire base at the High Level airport now open, as of April 1, and 54 firefighters on site conducting equipment and personal readiness activities (or in training), we are in the final stages of preparation for the 2025 wildfire season.
An additional 50-plus firefighters are set to arrive by the end of April, which will put us at full strength for the season.
The Airtanker Base (below) is set to open at the end of April, which – as it does each year – will provide the facilities and fuel needed for aircraft supporting wildfire operations.
Prevent spring wildfires
Please revisit your winter burn site and ensure it is, in fact, fully extinguished. This video covers the key points:
- Spread out the remaining woody debris.
- Scan the ashes by looking, smelling and carefully feeling with a bare hand for any signs of smoke or heat from the pile.
- Soak hot spots and stir until they're completely extinguished.
- Check your burn site multiple times in the coming weeks to ensure it has not reignited.
Wildfire update
Learn more about wildfire status on our website and view active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map.
Published on April 11, 2025 4:55 pm
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
From March 1 to October 31, all burning activities in the Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires, require a fire permit.
Prevent wildfires by checking on winter burn sites. Winter burns can smoulder underground and often reignite in the spring. Extinguish a fire by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again.
Contact info
Mark Giles
780-285-4490
mark.giles@gov.ab.ca