Local Wildfires (information current as of July 2, 12noon)
There are two wildfires in the Whitecourt WMA:
WWF-045
Status: Out Of Control.
Size: 31.2 hectares in size.
Location: The wildfire continues to be 11 kilometres south of the town of Swan Hills, east of Highway 32. It is 3.5 kilometres northeast of the Freeman River Provincial Recreation Area. There are no communities at risk.
There are 24 firefighters, one helicopter and various heavy equipment fighting this wildfire. The wildfire has been completely surrounded by fire guard, the helicopter is extinguishing open flame. Firefighters continue the hard work of using hand tools and pumps to extinguish smoldering areas on the ground, they are being supported by the heavy equipment. The firefighters will work from the exterior of the wildfire to the interior.
Images: (above) a look from the air and from the ground at WWF-045; (middle)
firefighters working; (below) map of area including town of Swan Hills, the wildfire is outlined in red.
WWF-044
Status: Under Control at 0.80 hectares in size.
Location: just under 50 kilometres west of the town of Fox Creek.
Current activity on the wildfire: we continue to monitor the wildfire, looking for smoldering areas and extinguishing them.
Since April 1, 2015, there have been 45 wildfires which have burned 64.00 hectares.
Provincial Wildfires
As of June 26, 2015 the Whitecourt Wildfire Management Area is now under a Fire Advisory.
What does this mean?
- Safe campfires ARE allowed in campgrounds and backcountry or random camping areas.
- Fire permits are now SUSPENDED and are no longer being issued until conditions change.
How Can You Help?
If you are using an Off-highway Vehicle during your day, periodically stop and check your vehicle for the build up of grass, branches or debris. This material can catch fire and drop from your vehicle as you drive; acting like a drip-torch it can start a wildfire. Learn more here.
Never leave your campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again to properly extinguish it.
Visit us on Facebook, Twitter or download our Alberta Wildfire App for android and apple products
Unless conditions change, you can expect your next wildfire update July 3rd.
Shannon Stambaugh | Wildfire Information Officer
Whitecourt Wildfire Management Area
mobile: 780.706.5336