Rocky Mountain House Area Update

Due to ongoing recent precipitation throughout the region, the wildfire danger across the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is currently LOW. However, the forecast over the weekend and into next week is predicting higher daytime temperatures and little to no precipitation, which could lead to an increase in wildfire danger.

Be safe this long weekend while enjoying the forested areas of Alberta by fully extinguishing your campfire. After you're finished with your campfire, let the fire cool down, then spread the coals within the designated fire ring. Soak the ashes thoroughly, stir them, and soak again until the coals or woody debris are cold to the touch.

If you see smoke or flame and suspect that it is a wildfire, please call 310-FIRE (3473) to report it. 

A Helitack (HAC) Crew responding to a wildfire in the Kiska Complex earlier this month.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1, 2024 there have been 77 wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, which have burned 11,517.51 hectares (ha).

There are currently three active wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area.

RWF064 is classified as UNDER CONTROL which means the wildfire is completely contained and will be extinguished. It is located 12 km northwest of the Ram Falls Provincial Park boundary and 25 km south of Nordegg. This wildfire is estimated to be 5,489 ha in size. 

RWF063 is classified as UNDER CONTROL. It is located approximately 17 km west of wildfire RWF062 and 50 km west of Nordegg. This wildfire is estimated to be 1,962 ha in size. 

RWF062 is classified as UNDER CONTROL and is located approximately 5 km north of the Crescent Falls Provincial Recreation Area, 9 km northwest from the Big Horn Reserve and 20 km west of Nordegg. This wildfire is estimated to be 4,051 ha in size.

Detected on July 23, 2024, these wildfires were determined to be caused by lightning and collectively form the Kiska Complex (RCX001). They continue to be monitored for activity and will be actioned if required.

Please remember to use caution and remain aware of any potential hazards, such as trees and hot spots, if you are traveling through or near any of the affected areas. 

PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE SUMMARY

• Since January 1, there have been 1,110 wildfires recorded in the Forest Protection Area that have burned 707,924 hectares.
• There are currently 73 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, one is classified as out of control, 28 are being held and 44 are under control.
  

For the most up-to-date wildfire information, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.  

LONG WEEKEND REMINDERS

This weekend marks the final long weekend of the summer season, make sure you are prepared for your adventures! While there are no fire bans, restrictions, or advisories in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area right now, nearby regions do have some in place. Before heading out on your travels, check Alberta Fire Bans.

If you are having a campfire, properly extinguish it by soaking it, stirring it and soaking it again until the coals are cool to the touch. A safe campfire should be within a metal, brick or rock fire ring and meet the following requirements:

• Ensure the fire is on a non-combustible surface, such as rock, gravel or sand, extending at least one meter around it.
• Have a responsible person present at all times to maintain control of the fire.
• Have enough water on hand to fully extinguish the fire.

Off-highway vehicles can start wildfires. Please stop often to clean your exhaust to ensure you are not the cause of a wildfire. Always carry firefighting equipment such as small shovel, collapsible pail and water or fire extinguisher.

The use of fireworks and exploding targets is prohibited in the Forest Protection Area without written permission. The use of these items could earn you a $600 written violation and if you are found responsible for causing a wildfire you could also be held responsible for the costs associated with extinguishing that wildfire. To request permission, contact your local forest area office, the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area can be reached at 403-845-8250.

FIRE PERMITS ARE REQUIRED

Until October 31, all burning activities in the FPA, excluding campfires, require a fire permit. Please check with your local municipality for any additional rules or restrictions before any burning takes place.

Fire permits are free and can be requested online or by calling the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area at 403-845-8250.

LOCAL WILDFIRE INFORMATION

Subscribe to Rocky Mountain House Forest Area Updates to receive an email notification when new information is posted. 

Download the Alberta Wildfire App for Apple or Android devices. Once you open the app, click the "info" icon at the bottom left to view the latest forest area updates.