Peace River Area Update

Peace River Forest Area Update - August 31, 2023

Posted on Thu, Aug 31, 2023

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The fire danger in the Peace River Forest Area (PRFA) is HIGH.

A fire advisory is now in place for the PRFA due to warm, dry, and windy conditions which will increase fire danger.

Please use caution when spending time in forested areas, as a fire can start and spread quickly.

 

fire danger map - Aug 31 2023

The forecasted fire danger map is updated daily at 3 pm.


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Fire advisory 

A fire advisory is in effect for the Peace River Forest Area due to warm, dry, and windy conditions.

Under this advisory: 

  • Existing fire permits are still valid. 
  • All valid fire permit holders must adhere to the conditions of the permit and postpone burning if wind speeds exceed the stated limit. Failure to do so could result in a violation ticket or further legal action. 

Prohibited: 

  • Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire, is prohibited. 

Allowed: 

  • Safe wood campfires 
  • Backyard fire pits 
  • Portable propane fire pits 
  • Gas or propane stoves and barbecues 
  • Catalytic or infrared-style heaters 

Municipalities, parks and protected areas may have additional fire safety requirements. 

Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.  

If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE. 

Please visit albertafirebans.ca to see a map of the exact area covered under this fire advisory. 

The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve. 

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Wildfire Situation 

Since January 1, there have been 131 wildfires in the PRFA burning a total of 27,495 hectares (ha).

PWF125 was discovered July 23 and is classified as being held (BH). It is estimated to be 615 ha in size. It is located approximately 15 kilometers south of the Chinchaga Wildland Park.  

PWF093 was discovered July 8. It is classified as being held (BH) at 5,955 ha.  

PWF082 was discovered on June 30. It is approximately 7,712 hectares in size and classified as being held (BH). It is located south of Chinchaga Wildland Provincial Park. 

PWF074 was discovered June 28 and is estimated to be 101 hectares in size. It is located approximately two kilometers northwest of Little Buffalo and is classified as under control (UC).  

GWF018 is currently classified as under control (UC). It is now estimated to be 49,328 ha in size. Reclamation activities are in progress.

Continue to stay informed by subscribing to Alberta Wildfire updates by entering your email. To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Wildfire Status page.

Caution is advised when travelling on area highways due to smoky conditions, especially in low lying areas. For road closures, visit 511 Alberta

Visit Alberta Wildfire Status to learn more about wildfire classifications.


Kimiwan Complex

SWF068 This wildfire is 143,039 hectares in size and is classified as under control (UC). The fire is 97 per cent contained.

Firefighters are focusing on extinguishing hotspots and consolidating containment lines.

Residents and members of the public should use extra caution near burnt areas, especially in windy conditions.

A Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) remains in place over this wildfire due to aerial firefighting activities. Operating an aircraft, including drones, within the area is prohibited.

PWF038 is classified as Under Control (UC) and is 6,534 hectares. Firefighters continue to patrol the area to identify and extinguish hot spots.

Basset Complex | HWF058, PWF067, PWF079 

The Basset Complex is being managed by the High Level Forest Area. 

For more information please visit the High Level Forest Area Update.


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Fire permits

From March 1 to October 31, fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.

Fire permits help us track what is burning on the landscape. If you are burning without a permit or not following permit conditions, your fire could be considered a wildfire and you could be fined and may be responsible for the costs of suppressing the fire. By getting a fire permit, you help keep our firefighters free to fight real wildfires instead of responding to the smoke in your backyard.

Fire permits are free and are now available online. Visit firepermits.alberta.ca for information on how to make a request online.

Fire permits are also still available, by request, from your local Forestry Office at 780-624-6190.


Stay away from active wildfire areas | For your safety and to ensure firefighters can do their job safely, please stay away from active wildfire areas. Your cooperation is essential.

Dangerous trees | Be extra cautious near burnt areas and avoid forested areas that have been recently affected by wildfire. Hazards remain from falling trees or branches, especially if windy, deep ash pits and burning peat.

Reporting wildfires | Please do not report smoke or flame from within an active wildfire area. Firefighters are diverted from essential tasks to respond to fires reported by the public. You may see smoke or flame within the existing boundary of a wildfire, this is normal.

Smoke | Lingering smoke may still be visible in some areas and in affected communities. Smoke inversions can trap air near the ground causing dangerous driving conditions and poor air quality. Please use extra caution when driving in smoky conditions, and take necessary precautions if you have smoke-related health concerns.

Drones | The use of recreational drones over wildfires in Alberta is dangerous, illegal and could result in a fine of up to $15,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk. Please give Alberta firefighters the space they need to do their jobs safely.  


Smoky conditions
Due to the numerous wildfires in western Canada, smoky conditions will persist in communities and along highways. Before travelling, check 511 Alberta for the latest road conditions or closures. Visit Fire Smoke Canada to see where smoke is coming from. Anyone with health concerns can visit Alberta Health Services or call 811 for health advice from Alberta Health Link.


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Using FireSmart principles is becoming a way of life for many communities in North America. With so many neighborhoods threatened by wildfire each year, residents are taking action and reducing the risk to their homes, cabins and properties. 

To learn more on how you can protect your home and structures from wildfire, visit FireSmart Canada or download the Farm and Acreage FireSmart magazine.


FOR MORE INFORMATION


CONTACT

Provincial Information Officer
(780) 420-1968

 

HELPFUL LINKS

Alberta Wildfire Status
Alberta Fire Bans
Air Quality Health Index
Alberta Emergency Alerts
511 Road Reports
Emergency Preparation