Whitecourt Forest Area Wildfire Update

The wildfire danger across the Whitecourt Forest Area is HIGH. Continued high temperatures, low humidity, and wind all contribute to this elevated risk. Please exercise caution when working or recreating outdoors.

Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.

If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.

Whitecourt-Street-Fest-2024

Over the weekend, members of the Whitecourt Unit Crew attended the Summer Street Fest, where they had the opportunity to talk about and promote wildfire prevention. Thank you to everyone who stopped by!

WHITECOURT FOREST AREA UPDATE

Since January 1, 2024, there have been 57 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 29.42 hectares (ha).

There are two active wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area listed as under control.

WWF044 was discovered July 16 and is located east of Fox Creek. It is 1 ha in size and is classified as under control. This means the wildfire is completely contained and will be extinguished. This wildfire was caused by lightning.

WWF043 was discovered July 16 and is located approximately 14 kilometers northwest of the Virginia Hills Road and Hope Creek Road intersection. It is 8.5 ha in size and is classified as under control. The cause of this wildfire remains under investigation.

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

There are currently no fire bans, restrictions or advisories for the Whitecourt Forest Area. For more information, please visit Alberta Fire Bans.

FirePermitOnline

FIRE PERMITS

You will need a fire permit for any burning in the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of a campfire, until October 31.

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. Visit Alberta.ca or call the Whitecourt Forestry office at 780-778-7153 to get your free fire permit.

c7202_FarmAcreage_v2_16-9_1920x1080

Flames aren’t the only threat when it comes to wildfires in your area. An estimated 90% of homes damaged or destroyed by wildfire are ignited by embers. By taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard, you can increase your properties’ resistance to wildfire. Visit firesmartalberta.ca to learn more.

It's never too late to participate. Learn how you can FireSmart your home and property. Visit FireSmart Alberta. For farm or acreages, you can download the Farm and Acreage FireSmart magazine.

wildfire app (3)

WILDFIRE STATUS APP

Download the Alberta Wildfire Status app today and get access to accurate, real-time information on active 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.

For more information, please contact:

image-png-Jun-28-2024-06-30-46-0636-PM