Wildfire Update
The wildfire danger is LOW in the Lac La Biche forest area.
Despite the snow on the ground, we have recorded one wildfire in the area so far this season.
Fire Ban and OHV Restriction
As part of Alberta Wildfire's Response Plan to COVID-19, a Fire Ban and OHV Restriction have been issued for the Forest Protection Area of Alberta effective April 15th at 2:00 pm.
These measures aim to reduce the number of human caused wildfires, as most if not all wildfires in the early spring are caused by human activity.
Reducing human caused wildfires helps keep our firefighting resources focused where they are most needed, especially when our firefighting resources may be challenged due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fire Permits
All fire permits are suspended. New permits will be issued on a case by case basis for essential agriculture and industry related burning.
Fire Ban
Prohibited
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All open fires including campfires on public and private land (in campgrounds, backcountry and random camping areas and backyard fire pits).
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Charcoal briquettes.
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Fireworks and exploding targets.
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The use of off-highway vehicles for recreational use on all public lands.
Allowed
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Portable propane fire pits that are CSA approved or UL certified.
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Gas or propane stoves and barbecues that are CSA approved or UL certified and are designed for cooking or heating.
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Catalytic or infrared-style heaters.
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OHVs for industrial use, agricultural use, and traditional use by Indigenous peoples, as well as use on private lands.
OHV Restriction
What is an OHV?
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An “off-highway vehicle” is a motorized vehicle designed to go beyond defined roadways, including but not limited to:
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Quads;
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Side by sides;
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Dirt bikes;
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4x4 Jeeps;
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Pick-up trucks; or
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Sport utility vehicles;
- Snowmobiles.
Exceptions
The OHV restriction does not apply to private land or agriculture, institutional (educational), commercial/ industrial, emergency response or Indigenous peoples who use OHV for traditional use.
Enforcement
Anyone found to be non-compliant of the fire ban may receive a violation ticket of $600 and non-compliant with the OHV restriction, a violation ticket of $1200.
For more details or to view a map of the Fire Ban/OHV Restriction visit www.albertafirebans.ca
Unless conditions change, your next update will be April 22.
Thanks for doing your part to prevent wildfire, and take care during this uncertain time.