Peace River Area Update

Spring is budding in the Peace River Forest Area. Green-up has begun, but it’s also the time of year when coniferous trees have extremely low moisture content, reaching maximum dryness. Trees are extremely flammable and fire can spread quickly, torching and crowning in trees.

When operating heavy-duty machines be aware of your surroundings and watch for sparks, hot exhaust, and friction that could start a wildfire. If you're using machinery in dry conditions you should consider the following:

• a nearby water source, fire extinguisher, and other firefighting equipment
• watch for gusting winds
• clear debris from moving parts
• check your muffler or other hot spots
• avoid operating equipment in tall grass 

Report Wildfires by calling 310-3473 if you spot smoke or fire in the forest.

CAMPFIRES AND FIRE SAFETY

Planning on heading out to do some camping this weekend? Any time people are out in the Forest Protection Area, we urge caution when working and recreating.

If you are camping in a provincial or national park, check the rules and guidelines and be sure to follow them for your safety and the safety of other campers. If you are camping in an area where safe campfires are permitted, remember to never leave your campfire unattended. Before leaving, be sure to soak it, stir it and soak it again.

• Alberta Wildfire typically sees an increase in human-caused wildfires during long weekends. Last year 67 per cent of wildfires were human-caused. We all have a role to play in preventing them.
• As there is very little lightning in the spring, almost all spring wildfires are human-caused and completely preventable. Dead and dry grass, twigs, leaves and branches provide fuel for fast-moving grassfires, making the prevention of wildfire especially important.
• One of our busiest days in Alberta last year was during the May long weekend – we responded to 38 wildfires in 24 hours. They were all human-caused! Help prevent wildfires this weekend by properly extinguishing your campfire: soak it, stir it and soak it again.
• When enjoying the outdoors this long weekend – remember to do your part to prevent wildfires. Campfires account for the highest percentage of human-caused wildfires. Human-caused wildfires are 100% preventable.
• For tips on how to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable campfire experience, visit our website: https://wildfire.alberta.ca/prevention/campfire-safety.aspx.
• When firefighters are sent to extinguish abandoned campfires, they are taken from fighting other wildfires which could threaten homes or communities.
• Remember to check albertafirebans.ca for fire advisories, bans or restrictions in your area or destination. If you are camping in a provincial or national park, check the rules and guidelines and be sure to follow them for your safety and the safety of other campers.
• If you see smoke or fire in the forest, report it by calling 310-FIRE (3473) toll free within Alberta.

Adhere to the conditions of your burn permit, never burn in windy conditions and always extinguish your campfire. If you see smoke or flame, call 310-3473.

BE FIRE SMART THIS SPRING

Managing the vegetation around your property can reduce the risk of wildfire. Thinning and pruning, removing trees like spruce and juniper and cleaning around your property are all FireSmart techniques. FireSmart uses preventative measures to reduce the wildfire threat to values at risk while balancing the ecological benefits of wildfire. 

lLearn more about the FireSmart partnership between government, industry and Albertans at https://wildfire.alberta.ca/firesmart/

NEW FIRE PERMIT PORTAL LAUNCHED