Peace River Area Update

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

Wildfire Situation

There are currently no wildfires in the PRFA. To date this year, there have been 100 wildfires in the PRFA. Since January 1st, 2022 in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, there have been 1,012 wildfires. 

We ask Albertans to be extremely cautious if they are spending time in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta this upcoming long weekend. While it may feel like summer is coming to an end, wildfire season doesn’t officially end until October 31. Wildfires can start any time of year if the conditions are right. Please use caution in the forested areas if you are out this long weekend.

Remember to check albertafirebans.ca for fire advisories, bans or restrictions in your area or destination.

To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire App or visit Wildfire Status | AAF - Agriculture and Forestry (alberta.ca). 

CAMPFIRES AND FIRE SAFETY

Planning on heading out to do some camping? 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.

• Last year 67 per cent of wildfires were human-caused. We all have a role to play in preventing them.
• Help prevent wildfires by properly extinguishing your campfire: soak it, stir it and soak it again.
• When enjoying the outdoors 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.
• If you see smoke or fire in the forest, report it by calling 310-FIRE (3473) toll-free within Alberta.

A fire permit is required in the FPA during wildfire season for all burning excluding campfires

Fire permits are issued by Alberta Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development (AFRED) to track burning across the province. This helps us to determine if smoke is a wildfire or permitted burning.

Each permit is unique and outlines the restrictions and conditions for your burn including location, wind speed, time and date of burn and any suppression tools required. Permits for burning are free and can be obtained at any AFRED office. Local offices can restrict issues permitting in cases of extreme wildfire hazard.

FOR MORE INFORMATION