Slave Lake Forest Area - August 29, 2025

Wildfire situation

There are 11 active wildfires in the Slave Lake Forest Area with 5 being held, and 6 under control. 

Wildfire SWF184 is located approximately 10 km north of Kinuso and estimated to be 0.5 hectares in size. Thanks to the quick response of the local fire department and wildland firefighters, SWF184 is now under control. This wildfire poses no threat to nearby communities.

Since January 1, 2025 there have been 184 wildfires reported in the Slave Lake Forest Area, burning a total of 371,342 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].

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.