Peace River Area Update

Peace River Forest Area Update - March 6, 2024

Posted on Wed, Mar 06, 2024

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The fire danger in the Peace River Forest Area is MODERATE.

Wildfires can still start in cooler weather, especially in dry and windy conditions. Always use caution in forested areas. 

Report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE (3473).


fire advisory wide

FIRE ADVISORY IN EFFECT
 
A fire advisory is in effect for the Peace River Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area due to drying conditions and high wind.
 
Under this advisory:
•    Existing fire permits are still valid.
•    New permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, only for essential burning.
 
Prohibited:
•    Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire is prohibited.
 
Although there is still snow coverage in some areas, there are bare spots throughout the forest area that pose a risk for new wildfire starts. Return to winter burn sites to ensure they are completely extinguished. These fires can smoulder underground and flare up into a wildfire when the conditions are right. 
 

early fire season - 2024

Wildfire season started early this year, on February 20.

This means that fire permits are required for burning within the Forest Protection Area, except for a campfire. The early start is due to the drought conditions occurring in many areas of the province, which could lead to elevated fire danger if we do not receive significant rain in the spring.

Please do your part to help prevent human caused wildfires by using caution in forested areas. Now’s the time to go back and check on any winter burn projects to make sure they are fully extinguished. Stay informed of fire restrictions and fire bans in your area by checking Alberta Firebans

Fire permits are free and can be requested online. Visit firepermits.alberta.ca to request your fire permit online. You may also request your fire permit by calling the Peace River forestry office at 780-624-6190. Permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, once a site visit has been done.


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Winter burning

Holdover fires are likely to occur this year due to dry conditions. A fire lit in the winter and left smouldering can burn under the snow and into the ground all winter long. Under the right conditions, these fires can re-emerge in the spring as wildfires. To prevent spring wildfires, check your winter burn sites frequently and ensure that all fires are completely extinguished.

Please get a fire permit for any burning project, other than a campfire, and always follow our safe burning guidelines.


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Wildfire situation 

Since January 1, there has been four new wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area that have burned 1.61 hectares.

There are currently eight wildfires burning in the Peace River Forest Area. Five of these wildfires are carryover fires from the 2023 wildfire season. Five of these wildfires are under control and three are being held. They are being monitored by firefighters. 

To view these wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire Status App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status page.


2024 seasonal recruitment

Now hiring

Are you interested in joining the Alberta Wildfire team this summer? We hire a variety of positions for the 2024 wildfire season. Apply today through the Alberta Jobs portal


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FireSmart

Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow. Visit the new FireSmart Alberta site to learn how you can reduce the risk and negative impact of wildfire to your home, neighbourhood and community.

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


CONTACT

Provincial Information Officer
(780) 420-1968

 

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