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). 

Alberta Wildfire is looking for your input!

We want to know what information is important to you and how we can best deliver it. Please take the time to fill out this short survey regarding how you receive wildfire information to help ensure we are delivering the information that matters to Albertans.

Link: https://your.alberta.ca/wildfire-information-survey/survey_tools/alberta-wildfire-information

PEACE RIVER FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1 there have been four wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area, burning a total of 0.26 hectares (ha). They are now extinguished.

PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1, 2023 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been 16 wildfires burning a total 3.29 ha.

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

FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED

Fire permits are now required for burning within the Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires. 

Fire permits are one of the many prevention tools Alberta Wildfire uses to keep track of burning being done throughout the province. This ensures that when smoke is reported, we can look into our system and check whether this is a wildfire or a permitted burn being done.

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.

Remember: before you leave a fire, make sure it is completely extinguished. Soak it, stir it and soak it again.

CHECK WINTER BURNS

A surprising number of winter burns can re-emerge as a spring wildfire. A lack of snow cover can leave brown, dry grass exposed and ready to ignite. Sparks from controlled fires like campfires, burn barrels or agricultural burning can inadvertently cause wildfires.

We ask Albertans to ensure all fall and winter burns are completely extinguished. All burning in the Forest Protection Area needs a fire permit except campfires after March 1.

When checking winter burns:

• Walk the area and check for heat. Fire can smoulder underground only to reappear under drier conditions as a wildfire.
• Insert a metal probe into the burned area and then feel it for heat to ensure nothing is burning in the ground.
• Soak it, stir it and soak it again and check that it's cool to the touch.

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

Peace River Wildfire Information Officer

Michelle Huley

Phone: (780) 618-2081

michelle.huley@gov.ab.ca

HELPFUL LINKS