Rocky Mountain House Area Update

Rocky Mountain House Forest Area Wildfire Update - September 22, 2023

Posted on Fri, Sep 22, 2023

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The wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is HIGH. 

Report smoke or flames in the forest by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 


ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE FOREST AREA UPDATE

Since January 1, 2023, there have been 72 wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, burning a total of approximately 120,935 hectares (ha). 


AUTUMN CONDITIONS

As summer gives way to fall, our region is experiencing changes in weather and vegetation. The curing process of grasses, shrubs, and trees is well underway, resulting in an increased risk of wildfires.  The dry conditions can make it easier for fires to start and spread rapidly. 

Here are some crucial tips to keep in mind:

  • Campfires and Open Flames: it’s crucial to be extra vigilant when it comes to campfires or any open flames.  If you plant to do any burning, please obtain the necessary permits and follow all local regulations.  If you plan to have a campfire, keep a close eye on the fire, have a water source nearby, and fully extinguish the fire before leaving.  SOAK IT, STIR IT, SOAK IT AGAIN.
  • Fire restrictions:  Stay informed about any fire restrictions or bans that may be in place in our area.  These restrictions are essential to prevent accidental wildfires during high-risk periods.

HUNTING SEASON

Hunting season has begun in many of our foothill and mountain regions. While campfires are a traditional part of the hunting experience, it’s essential to exercise extreme caution. Hunters, please build your campfires in safe areas, away from flammable materials like grass, twigs and leaves. Always extinguish your campfire when you are done with it. 

Hunting Campfire


SAFE CAMPFIRES

Never leave your campfire unattended and ensure it is properly extinguished when you are done with it. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch. Remember to put out your campfire when you are done.

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OHV SAFETY

If you are using an off-highway vehicle, remember to stop often and check hot spots. Debris, like grass and twigs, can build up around the engine, exhaust and muffler. This debris can heat up, smoulder and inadvertently ignite a wildfire when it falls to the ground. 

OHV hotspots


PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE 

Since January 1, there have been 1,023 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, burning a total of 2,068,549.89 ha.


WILDFIRE DASHBOARD

The wildfire dashboard provides up-to-date wildfire information at the click of a button. This interactive tool displays important statistics on the number of active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, sizes, locations, suspected causes and more.


WILDFIRE INFORMATION

Download the Alberta Wildfire Status app today and get access to accurate, real-time information on wildfires in your area. You can also find information on fire advisories, restrictions and bans across the province and much more, all on your mobile device.

Available for Apple and Android.

Before heading out, please check albertafirebans.ca to determine whether there are any fire advisories, fire restrictions or fire bans in effect for your destination. 


For more information contact:

Provincial Information Officer
 
RELATED INFORMATION
 
Websites:
 

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