Rocky Mountain House Area Update

The wildfire danger across the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is HIGH. While cooler overnight temperatures offer some relief, high daytime temperatures and windy conditions can quickly dry out vegetation. Please continue to use caution when recreating or working outdoors.

Please ensure that your campfire, including any small cooking or warming fires, is completely extinguished. To do this, thoroughly soak the ashes, stir them, and soak them again until they feel cool to the touch.

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

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1, 2024 there have been 81 wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, which have burned 11,517.66 hectares.

There are three active wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, and all are currently classified as under control.

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

FARMING WILDFIRE PREVENTION 

As harvest continues across Alberta, farmers are reminded to regularly check their machines and remove any buildup of debris and vegetation around hot spots. This practice helps prevent the unintentional ignition of wildfires caused by overheated debris falling to the ground. Preventive measures are important in reducing human-caused wildfires. 

Put a fire extinguisher in every vehicle! You might not be able to put a wildfire out with a fire extinguisher, but you could prevent one from starting. A fire extinguisher can help control fires started from hot bearings on farm equipment that could ignite entire fields. 

For more details on simple yet effective actions to reduce wildfire risk, refer to the Farm and Acreage FireSmart publication.

FIRE PERMITS ARE REQUIRED

Until October 31, all burning activities in the Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires, require a fire permit. Fire permits ensure safe burning practices and allow staff to know where burning is approved so firefighters and aircraft are free to fight wildfires. Your municipality may have its own rules and restrictions in place. Contact them for further details.

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

Once you have a permit, be sure to follow these safe burning practices: 

• Never leaving your fire unattended.
  
• Only burn what you can control and follow the conditions of your permit.
  
• Have your fire permit ready to present if requested.
  
• Watch for sparks and burning material that may result in smaller fires. Larger fires can send these sparks over several kilometres, especially when burning in the wind.
  
• If the wind is gusting over 15 km/hour or increases beyond the limit on your permit, immediately extinguish your fire.
  
• Have the tools and equipment listed in your permit available to put out any spot fires that may occur.

HUNTING SEASON WILDFIRE PREVENTION 

Hunting season is underway in many foothill and mountain regions. If your hunting trip involves using off-highway vehicles (OHVs) or having a campfire, be aware that these activities, combined with drying vegetation, can create fuel for wildfires. It’s important to take necessary precautions to ensure you have a safe trip and help prevent human-caused wildfires.

In the backcountry or any area without a dedicated fire ring, choose a location free from dry grass, bushes, leaves, branches, tree trunks, peat moss, and overhanging branches. When possible, use previously established fire sites. If no dedicated fire ring is available, follow these guidelines:

• Create a circle about one metre in diameter,
• Dig or scrape down to the mineral soil, and
• Clear away any flammable materials within one metre of the pit. 

Always extinguish your campfire when you are done with it. Soak it. Stir it. Soak it again. Before heading out, visit our website for a refresher on campfire safety.

ALBERTA WILDFIRE APP

The Alberta Wildfire Status App is a great way to stay informed about wildfire information in Alberta. Download the app today (for Apple or Android) to have instant access to information on wildfire locations and sizes, fire ban information, conditions in your local forest area and directions on how to report a wildfire.