The fire danger is high across the Slave Lake Forest Area. Warm temperatures continue to dry out vegetation, creating conditions where wildfires can start easily and spread quickly. Please use caution with any outdoor activity and do your part to help prevent human-caused wildfires.
Wildfire situation
The Slave Lake Forest Area has responded to 59 wildfires, which have burned approximately 40 hectares, since January 1, 2026. There is one active wildfire in the Slave Lake Forest Area.
SWF059 was discovered on July 24, 2026. It is currently 2 hectares (ha) and is classified as out of control. The wildfire is located along the southeastern edge of McConachie Lake, which is approximately 60 kilometers north of Slave Lake. Alberta Wildfire is responding with firefighters, airtankers and helicopters with buckets. Night vision-equipped helicopters will work on the fire overnight.
See the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard for up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, and statistics. By adjusting settings and layers on the dashboard, you can also view forest area boundaries, active fire advisories, restrictions and bans, wildfire danger ratings and much more.
Choose a safe campfire site
A safe campfire starts with choosing the right location. In campgrounds or recreational areas, use the designated stoves, fire rings or fire pits. These are designed to keep fires from spreading and are the best choice for a safe campfire. When outside of a campground, choose a site that is clear of dry grass and vegetation, away from low hanging branches and on level ground sheltered from wind.
Never leave your campfire unattended and always have water nearby in case your campfire escapes.
When you're done, ensure your campfire is completely extinguished. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch.
Fire permits are required
Until October 31, fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
Fire permits help firefighters know what’s burning on the landscape. If you burn without a permit or don’t follow the permit rules, your fire could be treated as a wildfire. You could be fined and required to pay the cost of putting it out. Getting a fire permit helps firefighters focus on real wildfires instead of checking smoke from backyard burns.
Fire permits are free and can be requested online. Visit firepermits.alberta.ca to request your fire permit online. You may also request your fire permit by calling your local Forestry Office.
Wabasca 780-891-3860
Slave Lake 780-849-7377
High Prairie 780-523-6619
Fire permit holders, remember to check the weather forecast before initiating any burning activities and ensure you adhere to the safe burning conditions outlined on your fire permit.
Contact info
Jody Lucius
780-805-0312
[email protected]
Published on July 24, 2026 5:33 pm