Peace River Area Update

The fire danger for the Peace River Forest Area is LOW. 

If you see smoke or fire in the forest, report it by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 

PEACE RIVER FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1, 2023 there have been no new wildfires. While wildfires in the winter are rare, they do happen. If you're burning please ensure you have the proper fire fighting equipment nearby. If you're having a campfire make sure you soak it, stir it and soak it again to ensure it's out. 

PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1, 2023 there have been no new wildfires. 

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

WILDFIRE SEASON BEGINS MARCH 1

During wildfire season, 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 now available online. Visit firepermits.alberta.ca to request yours. You’ll need a MyAlberta Digital ID to request a permit, so be sure to sign-up online at account.alberta.ca/signup first. Fire permits are also still available, by request, from your local forest area office. The Peace River Forest Area can be reached by calling 780-624-6190.

Nearly all spring wildfires are started by humans. Last year, more than 60 per cent of all wildfires in the province were human caused. We all need to do our part in reducing the number of these entirely preventable wildfires. Whether it’s an abandoned campfire, OHV exhaust, or agricultural burning, everyone can help reduce the risk.

WINTER BURNING 

Burn debris in stages so that you can adapt to the changing weather conditions and reduce smoke. Consult your local municipality on how to safely undertake larger winter burning projects near communities or roads. 

Please be mindful of the weather forecast and watch for windy conditions and refrain from burning when an inversion is in place.

Remember that fire can burn deep into the ground and start-up again when conditions are right. These are called holdover wildfires and due to the unusually dry fall and drought conditions it will effect burning conditions throughout the winter.

Refrain from burning until you have 15cm of snow. 

SMOKE INVERSIONS 

The inversion happens when cold air is trapped near the ground by warmer air. The cool air near the surface cannot escape upwards and this creates a layer in which smoke from winter burning is trapped along the ground surface as it cannot mix out and rise.

If an inversion is expected, smoke can be trapped close to the ground overnight reducing visibility and causing dangerous driving conditions. Smoke from burns can affect those with smoke related health concerns. 

Check the weather forecast for an inversion before you burn and help us out by calling the Peace River forestry office at 780-624-6190 if you plan to do any large scale burning. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

• Bookmark the Peace River Wildfire Update and check for updates anytime or subscribe to have it emailed to you. 
• You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit www.wildfire.alberta.ca

CONTACT

Provincial Information Officer

Phone: (780) 420-1968

wildfireinfo@gov.ab.ca

HELPFUL LINKS