Wildfire danger
Due to recent rain, the wildfire danger in the Slave Lake Forest Area has been reduced to LOW. A fire can still ignite but is not expected to spread to deeper vegetation layers or larger fuels, such as trees. Report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE (3473).
Photo: Daily lightning map.
Photo: SWF061 on June 23, 2024 at 3:34 pm. This lightning caused wildfire is being held. Being held means the wildfire is not anticipated to grow past expected boundaries given the current weather and firefighting resources.
Current wildfire situation
Lightning sparked five new wildfires on the afternoon of Sunday June 23, 2024. Firefighters in helicopters responded and of the five new wildfires one is being held, one is under control and three have been extinguished. The wildfires ranged in size from 0.01 to 0.5 hectares. Firefighters continue to work on extinguishing SWF060 and SWF061.
Since January 1, 2024, 61 wildfires have been reported in the Slave Lake Forest Area, resulting in a total burned area of 313.84 hectares.
On June 4, 2024 wildfires SWF060, SWF116 and SWF081 from 2023 were declared extinguished. SWF068 from the 2023 wildfire season remains under control.
Since January 1, 2024, 471 wildfires have been reported in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, resulting in a total burned area of 31,467.8 hectares.
To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard
The Forest Protection Area is divided into 10 forest areas. Find the latest updates for each area here or subscribe to receive them in your inbox.
During times of low to moderate wildfire danger, updates will be issued weekly. However, when the danger escalates to high or extreme levels, updates will be provided daily. Unless conditions change, you can expect your next wildfire update on June 27, 2024. If you have any questions contact Leah Lovequist, the Wildfire Information Officer for the Slave Lake Forest Area, at 780-849-0945.
Celebrating with fireworks this July Long Weekend
To request written permission from a Forest Officer contact your local Slave Lake Forest Area office.
Wabasca 780-891-3860
Slave Lake 780-849-7377
High Prairie 780-523-6619
A site inspection will also be required, so please plan ahead and call at least three days before the long weekend.
For permission to use fireworks in areas outside of the Forest Protection Area contact:
Town of Slave Lake: Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service 780-849-4110
Town of High Prairie: Fireworks are not allowed within the town limits.
Click here for more information on the use of fireworks and exploding targets.
Fire permits are required
Fire permits help us track what is burning on the landscape. 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.
Wabasca 780-891-3860
Slave Lake 780-849-7377
High Prairie 780-523-6619
Fire permit holders, please remember to check the weather forecast before initiating any burning activities. This precaution ensures that you'll adhere to the safe burning conditions outlined on your fire permit.
*Postponed until July*
Pelican Mountain Prescribed Fire
Alberta Wildfire is planning to conduct one or more prescribed fires approximately 12.5 kilometres southwest of Sandy Lake. The prescribed fire will be three hectares in size and burning will take place when forecasted weather and on-the-ground conditions allow for a safe, controlled burn.
Click here to view the factsheet and maps for the Pelican Mountain Research Site Prescribed Fire.
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Prevent wildfires
67% of wildfires in Alberta are caused by people. Whether you are recreating or working outdoors, please do your part to prevent wildfires.
When riding your off-highway vehicle, stop frequently to remove any build-up of debris from your machine. Grass, muskeg, moss or other debris can begin to smoulder and drop to the ground as you're riding and spark a wildfire. Always carry firefighting equipment such as a shovel, extinguisher and bucket when you ride.
When having a campfire, keep it small, safe and always attended. When you are leaving the site or going to bed, your campfire must be extinguished. Soak it, stir up the ashes, soak it again to ensure it is out. A campfire is out when you can no longer feel heat from the ashes.
FireSmart Alberta
Download the FireSmart Yard Fact Sheet for practical and simple actions you can take on your property to reduce the risk of a wildfire reaching your home.
Wildfire information
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 province, sizes, locations, suspected causes and more. The dashboard builds on the former wildfire status map by displaying the most frequently accessed information in one convenient location.
Download the Alberta Wildfire app 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.
If you have any questions, please contact:
Wildfire Information Officer
Leah Lovequist
Mobile:780-849-0945
Leah.Lovequist@gov.ab.ca
RELATED INFORMATION
Forest Area Updates:
Websites:
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