The wildfire danger across the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is now high. This means that if a wildfire were to occur, moderate to vigorous surface fire is expected, which may spread to treetops. Conditions may be challenging for fire suppression efforts, as forest fuels are dry and the fire risk is serious.
If you see smoke or flame and suspect that it is a wildfire, please call 310-FIRE.
On September 20, this area was covered in a few inches of fresh snow, but it is now completely bare. With the snow melted, the vegetation will continue to dry out as the fall season progresses. As temperatures rise today and throughout the week, and as fine fuels (such as grass and leaves) dry out, the risk of wildfires is likely to increase. Please continue to use caution when working or recreating outdoors.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE
Since January 1, 2024 there have been 82 wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, which have burned 11,517.76 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.
AUTUMN CONDITIONS & WILDFIRE PREVENTION
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, leading to an increased risk of wildfires. To help prevent human-caused wildfires this fall, please follow these guidelines:
Hunting Season & Campfires
While campfires are a traditional part of the hunting experience, it’s essential to use caution. Always build your campfires in safe areas, away from flammable materials like grass, twigs and leaves. Keep your campfires small, safe and attended at all times. Before leaving your campsite or going to bed, make sure your campfire is completely extinguished. Soak the fire with water, stir the ashes and soak it again to ensure it’s out. A fire is fully extinguished when you can no longer feel any heat from the ashes. Always prioritize safety by confirming your campfire is completely out when you’re finished.
Farming
Regularly inspect your machinery and clear any debris and vegetation from around hot spots. This practice helps prevent wildfires caused by overheated equipment. Keeping your machinery well-maintained also reduces the risk of sparks igniting dry vegetation. Always carry firefighting equipment, such as a shovel, fire extinguisher and bucket, on your farming equipment.
Off-Highway Vehicles
Stop frequently to clear any debris from your machine, as materials like grass, moss, or muskeg can smolder and drop to the ground, potentially sparking a wildfire. Always carry firefighting equipment, including a shovel, fire extinguisher and bucket, while riding.
FARM & ACREAGE WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS
Fall is a good time to clean out flower beds next to the house and other outbuildings. Dead and dry flower and plant stems that build up in flower beds can easily ignite from embers blown around by the wind from an advancing wildfire. Once this vegetation catches fire, it can easily cause the house or outbuildings to ignite.
Cleaning the leaves out of roof valleys and from your eaves is another good fall project. Similar to the dry vegetation in the flower beds, leaves piled up in roof valleys and eaves are a potential ignition point for airborne embers.
Cleaning up the down and dead wood in your yard, shelter belts, woodlots and near your home and fences is a good family project for the fall. Bigger pieces can be used for firewood and small branches can be used for wiener and marshmallow roasts! This is a great opportunity to educate your family about wildfire prevention practices and inspire everyone to be responsible homeowners.
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.
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.