Slave Lake Area Update

Wildfire danger

The wildfire danger in the Slave Lake Forest Area will be VERY HIGH due to the strong and gusty winds expected on Wednesday. Under the dry and windy conditions, a fire will ignite easily and spread quickly. Firefighters urge everyone to use caution when working or recreating outdoors and to report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE (3473). Firefighters with helicopters and airtankers are on alert ready to respond to any new wildfires that start. 

Weather

For Wednesday temperatures will reach 17-18 degrees, with a relative humidity of 35-40%. Winds will be from the west at 15-20 kilometers per hour gusting up to 40.

There are no fire advisories, restrictions or bans in the Slave Lake Forest Area. Visit www.albertafirebans.ca for up-to-date information on fire regulations in other parts of Alberta.

Prevent wildfires

On average, 67% of wildfires in Alberta are caused by people. To help prevent wildfires this fall, please follow these guidelines:

• Farmers: Regularly inspect your machines and clear any debris and vegetation from around hot spots. This practice helps prevent wildfires caused by overheated debris. Keeping your machinery well-maintained also reduces the risk of sparks igniting dry vegetation. Always carry firefighting equipment, including a shovel, fire extinguisher, and bucket, on your farming equipment.

• Campers: Keep your campfires small, safe, and always attended. Before leaving the site or going to bed, ensure your campfire is completely extinguished. Soak the fire with water, stir the ashes, and soak it again to ensure it’s out. The fire is fully extinguished when you can no longer feel any heat from the ashes.

• Off-Highway Vehicle Riders: 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, such as a shovel, fire extinguisher, and bucket, while riding.

Since January 1, 2024, 1,156 wildfires have been reported in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, resulting in a total burned area of 708,116.99 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.

• Calgary Forest Area
• Edson Forest Area
• Fort McMurray Forest Area
• Grande Prairie Forest Area
• High Level Forest Area

• Lac La Biche Forest Area
• Peace River Forest Area
• Rocky Mountain House Forest Area
• Slave Lake Forest Area
• Whitecourt Forest Area

Forest areas of Alberta map

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 September 19, 2024. If you have any questions contact Leah Lovequist, the Wildfire Information Officer for the Slave Lake Forest Area, at 780-849-0945.

 

Fire permits are required

From now until October 31, fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 

 

Fire permits are free and can be requested online. Visit firepermits.alberta.ca to request your fire permit online. You may also request your fire permit by calling your local Forest Area Office.

 

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.

FireSmart