WILDFIRE UPDATE
The cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity levels have helped the wildfire danger to drop to MODERATE in the Peace River Forest Area. Thundershowers are expected to pass through the area bringing gusty winds and lightning, increasing the risk of new wildfire starts. Winds are expected to gust up to 40 km/hr. Please note that this is well beyond the wind conditions outlined on fire permits, so all permit holders should refrain from burning.
So far this season, there have been 47 wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area, all of which have now been extinguished.
Firefighters have been patrolling and lookout observers are keeping a watchful eye out for new smokes popping up in the area. Firefighting resources have been placed strategically throughout the Peace River Forest Area in order to quickly action and control any new wildfire starts.
Please call 310-FIRE to report wildfires.
For more information on the wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit: wildfire.alberta.ca.
FIRE ADVISORIES, RESTRICTIONS AND BANS
There are currently no fire advisories, restrictions or bans in the Peace River Forest Area.
Please visit www.albertafirebans.ca throughout the wildfire season for more information about fire bans and restrictions in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
BEFORE YOU BURN IT, GET A PERMIT
Fire permits are required for all burning within the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of campfires. To inquire about getting your free fire permit, call the Peace River Forest Area office at 780-624-6190.
Please remember that if you intend to burn once you've obtained your fire permit, you must evaluate the weather at your specific location and follow the conditions on your permit. You can be held responsible if a fire escapes the burn permit area.
SAFE OHV USE
If you choose to drive an off-highway vehicle in Alberta’s forested areas please remember:
- OHV exhausts can get very hot, reaching temperatures of over 200 Celsius, causing debris caught near the exhaust to become superheated. This debris can potentially start a wildfire when it falls to the ground.
- It is crucial for Albertans to stop and check OHVs and the ground for any debris that may have fallen.
- Before you ride, clean any debris that has built up near the exhaust and muffler, under the seat, in wheel wells and around the engine.
- Always carry a small fire extinguisher, a collapsible shovel and water. These tools can help extinguish a wildfire and safely dispose of hot debris.
COVID-19 AND WILDFIRE
Alberta Wildfire has developed a COVID-19 response plan that will ensure we can keep staff healthy and effectively manage wildfires during the 2020 wildfire season. Wildfire fighting methods were reviewed and best practices on physical distancing, hygiene, travel and isolation have been adopted.
Thank you for your continued support and patience as we navigate through these difficult times.
For more information, visit:
FOR MORE INFORMATION
- Bookmark the Peace River Wildfire Update and check for updates anytime or subscribe to have it emailed to you
- Download our app, available for Apple and Android devices.
- You can also find us on Facebook,Twitter, Youtube
- or visit www.wildfire.alberta.ca
For more information, please contact:
Crystal Burrows | Wildfire Information Officer
Mobile: (780) 618-6215
Report Wildfires 310-FIRE (3743)