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High wildfire danger
The fire danger level remains high throughout the entire High Level Forest Area (HLFA). Despite some light rain in areas, grass, leaves and other vegetation are dry in communities and much of the forest area, which could fuel a fast-moving wildfire. Please use caution if you are spending time or working outside.
Wildfire situation
HWF033 east of Paddle Prairie
This wildfire was detected this afternoon (May 25), approximately 30 km east of the eastern perimeter of the Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement and 105 km south-southeast of the Town of High Level. Firefighters and airtankers are responding to suppress this wildfire, which is currently out of control and estimated at 7 hectares (ha) in size. This wildfire does not pose a threat to communities at this time. Its cause is under investigation.
HWF017 at Fox Lake (LRRCN)
Alberta Wildfire is supporting the Little Red River Cree Nation (LRRCN) Fire Department with a bucketing helicopter and airtankers on a previous wildfire (HWF017) at the local landfill, which jumped the guard (containment line) on May 25. This wildfire is currently being held and estimated to be 5 ha in size.
HWF031 south of Tall Cree First Nation
Firefighters and aircraft continue their work to suppress wildfire HWF031, which is located about 8 km south of the south edge of Tall Cree (South) First Nation and about 9 km northeast of Wadlin Lake. It is currently classified as being held and estimated to be 7.4 ha in size. There is no threat to communities at this time. The cause is under investigation.
In 2025, there have been 33 wildfires in the HLFA to date, burning approximately 80 ha.
To view wildfires on a map and for live updates, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. Learn more about wildfire status definitions used in Alberta.
Fire permits
Under the current fire restriction, all previously issued fire permits are suspended, and new ones will not be issued until conditions change.
During the official wildfire season (Mar. 1 to Oct. 31), fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. When being issued, fire permits can be requested online or from the HLFA main office at 780-926-5407.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction is in effect for the entire High Level Forest Area. Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands, all previously issued fire permits are now suspended, and no new permits will be issued until conditions change.
Prohibited
- Outdoor wood fires on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas
- Any burning, other than a campfire on private land
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed
- Safe wood campfires on private land, including provincial campgrounds with a designated fire ring
- Backyard firepits
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve.
To learn more, visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Community outreach
The High Level Forest Area (HLFA) participates in many community events throughout the year. Our staff also reaches out to schools and other organizations in the area, providing interactive presentations for all ages.
HLFA staff again supported the Northern Lights Forest Education Society (NLFES) on May 21, conducting a tour of the HLFA Fire Centre, Footner Fire Base, Airtanker Base and helicopter launch-and-landing areas. Students were able to interact with dispatchers, forest officers, pilots and ground crews while discussing wildfire prevention and operations.
Wildfire Technologist Joelle Gagne (yellow shirt) speaks with students during a tour of the HLFA Fire Centre, Airtanker Base, and helicopter launch-and-landing areas on May 21. The tour was coordinated by David Asher (far right) as part of NLFES efforts to increase awareness of forestry, wildfire prevention and operations, and potential seasonal and career jobs with Alberta Forestry.
Published on May 25, 2025 4:02 pm