Whitecourt Forest Area Wildfire Update

The wildfire danger for the Whitecourt Forest Area is LOW.

When the fire danger is low, fires can still ignite but are not expected to spread to deeper vegetation layers or larger fuels, such as trees.

If you see smoke or flame in the forest please call 310-FIRE (3473).

WHITECOURT FOREST AREA UPDATE

Since January 1st, 2024, there have been 36 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 19 hectares (ha).

There is currently one active wildfire in the Whitecourt Forest Area and it is under control.

To view wildfires on our interactive map, visit the wildfire status page and follow the active wildfire link.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

Our wildfire crews enjoyed their time connecting with residents in the Whitecourt and Fox Creek area over the Canada Day long weekend. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our wildfire booth at Festival Park to ask questions about wildfire prevention and FireSmart principles.

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NEVER LEAVE A CAMPFIRE UNATTENDED

SOAK IT, STIR IT, AND SOAK IT AGAIN

Let the fire burn down before you plan on putting it out. Spread the embers within the fire pit, then add water or loose dirt, and stir.
Expose any material still burning. Add more water and stir again until you can no longer see smoke or steam. Do not bury your fire as the embers may continue to smolder and can re-emerge as a wildfire.
Repeat until your campfire is cool to the touch.
If your fire is out, you should not be able to feel any heat from the ashes
Alberta wildfire typically sees an increase in human-caused wildfires during long weekends

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GET YOUR FREE FIRE PERMIT

All burning within the Forest Protection Area of Alberta requires a fire permit, with the exception of a campfire. You can get your free fire permit by applying online or by contacting the Whitecourt Forest Area office at 780-778-7166.

Please help our staff by planning ahead. As the season gets busy, there may be delays for a forest officer to visit your site. Contact us or submit for your permit online as early as possible to ensure you have your permit for when you need it.

MEET EMBER THE FIRESMART FOX

Meet Ember, FireSmart’s official mascot. Ember teaches Canadians how to apply FireSmart principles to their homes and properties so they can be more resilient against the threat of wildfire.

Ember reminds us of the simple yet effective steps to take to reduce wildfire risk for our homes and our communities.

OTHER FIRESMART INFORMATION

Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow. Visit FireSmart Alberta to learn how taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard can increase your property's resistance to wildfire.

Download the Farm and Acreage Guide for additional information for rural properties.

For more information, please contact:

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