Lac La Biche Forest Area Wildfire Update

The wildfire danger in the Lac La Biche forest area is now EXTREME. Firefighters urge everyone to use caution when working or recreating outdoors.

When the fire danger level is at extreme: Forest fuels are extremely dry and pose a very serious fire risk. Fast-spreading, high-intensity fires are likely, which are very difficult to control. Screenshot 2024-09-11 082321

Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE(3473).

LAC LA BICHE WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1, 2024, there have been 194 wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area burning an estimated total of 23,928 hectares (ha).

There are currently 11 active wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area. Of those, two are being held and nine are under control.

LWF159 – The status of this wildfire is BEING HELD at 5,563 ha in size. This fire is located in Dillon River Wildland Provincial Park about 12km east of Winefred Lake No. 194B. Heavy equipment operators will continue with reclamation work.

LWF147 – The status of this fire is UNDER CONTROL at 6,381 ha in size. The fire is located approximately 16 km northeast of Heart Lake in the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range. This fire is being monitored for growth and fire activity.

LWF123 – the status of this wildfire is BEING HELD and is estimated at 3,181 ha in size. The fire is located approximately 5 km north of South Watchusk Lake. This fire is being monitored for growth and fire activity.

View active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our Wildfire Status page.

FALL BURNING PERMITS

If you plan to burn it... get your permit.

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Only burn what you can control. High winds can carry embers long distances. Always be prepared and have fire fighting equipment ready. A large water vessel or fire extinguisher can help but wildfires can start and get out of hand quickly. Use extreme caution in these conditions or save it for another day.

Permits are still required until October 31 in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. For tips on how you can burn safely visit www.alberta.ca for more information. You can also get your free fire permit online or by calling the Lac La Biche office at 780-623-5388.

OHV SAFETY

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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.

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CAMPFIRE SAFETY

SOAK IT, STIR IT, AND SOAK IT AGAIN

Let the fire burn down before you plan on putting it out. Spread the embers within the fire pit, then add water or loose dirt, and stir.
Expose any material still burning. Add more water and stir again until you can no longer see smoke or steam. Do not bury your fire as the embers may continue to smolder and can re-emerge as a wildfire.
Repeat until your campfire is cool to the touch.
If your fire is out, you should not be able to feel any heat from the ashes
Alberta wildfire typically sees an increase in human-caused wildfires during long weekends.

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Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow. Visit FireSmart Alberta 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.

WILDFIRE INFORMATION

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Subscribe to Lac La Biche forest area updates to receive them in your inbox.

Download the AB Wildfire Status app, and select the "i" at the bottom to see the most recent update. Sign up to be notified when a new update is published.

Visit Alberta Wildfire for more information on the current wildfire situation.

Visit Alberta Fire Bans to see if there are any fire advisories, fire restrictions or fire bans in effect in your area.

For more information, please contact: