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Wildfire update

Slave Lake Forest Area - August 27, 2025

Very High wildfire danger

The wildfire danger in the Slave Lake Forest Area has climbed to very high due to hot, dry weather. This means wildfires can start easily and spread quickly under current conditions. 

Firefighters urge everyone to be cautious when spending time outdoors. Avoid activities that could spark a fire, and always ensure that campfires are fully extinguished.

Wildfire situation

There are 10 active wildfires in the Slave Lake Forest Area, with 5 being held and 5 under control. 

Since January 1, 2025 there have been 180 wildfires reported in the Slave Lake Forest Area, burning a total of 371,537 hectares (ha). 

See the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard for up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, statistics and more.

Red Earth East Complex 

The Red Earth East Complex includes 7 active wildfires that are located east of Highway 88. 

  • Being held: SWF085, SWF089, SWF092, SWF094 and SWF100
  • Under control: SWF095 and SWF115

Map of the Red Earth East Complex

An evacuation order remains in effect for Chipewyan Lake. The wildfire threat to the community and the Chip/Alpac road remains minimal.

Firefighters, supported by helicopters and heavy equipment, continue to strengthen containment lines and extinguish hot spots. These wildfires are large and will take time to fully extinguish, and smoke may still be visible.

For more information about the wildfires in the Red Earth East Wildfire Complex, please email [email protected].

Fire advisory

A Fire Advisory is in effect for the Slave Lake Forest Area.

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 for essential burning only.
  • Safe campfires are allowed.

Prohibited:

  • Any burning without a valid fire permit is prohibited, except for campfires.

Stay informed of fire restrictions and fire bans in your area by checking www.albertafirebans.ca

Smoky conditions

Smoky conditions may persist in the Slave Lake Forest Area. To find the source of the smoke, visit FireSmoke Canada. If you have smoke related health concerns, call Health Link 24/7 by dialing 811 or visit Alberta Health Services.

Get your free fire permit 

From March 1 to October 31, a fire permit is required for any burning in the Forest Protection Area, except for a campfire. Fire permits ensure safe burning practices are being followed and allow firefighters to know where burning is approved.

Fire permits are free and can be requested online. You may also request your fire permit by calling your local forestry office.

  • Slave Lake: 780-849-7377
  • Wabasca: 780-891-3860
  • High Prairie: 780-523-6619

Prevent wildfires 

With 63% of wildfires in Alberta caused by people, prevention is important—especially during the dry fall season. Do your part to prevent wildfires by following simple safety steps whether you’re farming, camping, or riding off-highway vehicles.

Farmers

  • Regularly inspect machinery and remove debris, especially around hot spots.
  • Keep equipment well-maintained to reduce the risk of sparks.
  • Always carry firefighting tools on your equipment: a shovel, fire extinguisher, and bucket.

Campers

  • Keep campfires small, controlled, and never leave them unattended.
  • Fully extinguish fires before leaving or going to bed: soak with water, stir the ashes, then soak again.
  • Make sure the fire is completely out—if the ashes are cool to the touch, it’s safe.

Off-Highway Vehicle Riders

  • Stop frequently to clear debris like grass, moss, or muskeg from your machine.
  • Carry essential firefighting tools: shovel, fire extinguisher, and bucket.
  • Avoid riding through dry vegetation where heat or sparks could ignite a fire.

Contact info

Dan Troke
7808435772
[email protected]

Published on August 27, 2025 1:04 pm