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High wildfire danger
Due to large areas of dry vegetation and increased temperatures, the fire danger level in the Peace River Forest Area is now high. Use caution with any outdoor activity.
Wildfire update
There is 1 active wildfire in the Peace River Forest Area.
PWF005 is burning 16 kilometers southeast of Keg River on the west side of Highway 35. It is being held at 6.7 hectares. Crews are on-site. Smoke and equipment may be visible from the road. Drive with caution.
As of January 1, 2026, there have been 5 wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area.
For real time information on wildfires visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Hutton Creek Prescribed Burn
Alberta Wildfire is conducting a prescribed burn on crown land on the east side of the Peace River valley, 15 kilometers east of the hamlet of Deadwood. Operations will continue for a period of approximately 2 weeks, during which time smoke, firefighters, and helicopters may be visible in the area.
The burn is not in close proximity to any infrastructure or communities, and the high moisture content of the surrounding area will act as a natural barrier to possible large-scale spread, given the continuation of current snowmelt conditions.
Prescribed burning is a common practice undertaken by wildfire professionals to clear vegetation from overgrown and unhealthy forested/ grassy areas. Burning old vegetation allows new forests and grasslands to grow with more biological diversity, higher nutrient levels, and reduces the possibility of highly destructive, hotter burning fires in the future.
Learn more about prescribed fire in Alberta.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is now in effect for the Peace River Forest Area.
The continued warm temperatures create conditions where wildfires can start easily and spread quickly. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could potentially spark a wildfire.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are valid. Permit holders must follow all safe burning conditions outlined on the permit.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
- Safe campfires are allowed.
Prohibited:
- Any burning without a valid fire permit is prohibited, except for campfires.
When operating machinery like off-highway vehicles or farm equipment, always carry firefighting tools such as a shovel, fire extinguisher and a pail.
Never leave a campfire unattended, and make sure it is fully extinguished by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again.
Stay informed of fire restrictions and fire bans in your area by checking www.albertafirebans.ca.
Farming Safely During Fire Season
Spring work is here, and while this time of year can often be wet, cold, rainy, or snowy, the risk of agricultural wildfires remains present. Dry vegetation and crop residue is highly flammable, so extra precautions must be taken to prevent fires on the farm.
What can be done:
- Keep machinery clean. Clear out any debris around hot spots and pinch points.
- Maintain electrical components and equipment
- Grease mobile components of equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations
- Regularly clean air filters
- Regularly check coolant and oil levels
- Keep a full, up to date ABC fire extinguisher in or near the cab and know how to use it
- Read the FireSmart Farm and Acreage Guide to learn more about farm fire safety.
Brush pile burning
From March 1 to October 31, all burning requires a fire permit. When burning brush piles, remember to follow safe burning practices.
Check winter burn sites often. Fires can smoulder underground for weeks or even months and may reignite in warm, dry weather. When revisiting a winter burn site:
- Spread remaining ashes and debris.
- Check the ground for any hot spots for any lingering ground fire.
- Douse the area to fully extinguish the burn and stir ashes with heavy equipment or hand tools.
- Ensure the area is cold to the touch.
Contact info
Tannis McNabb
780-617-4851
[email protected]
Published on May 6, 2026 2:53 pm