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Extreme wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is extreme in the Slave Lake Forest Area due to hot, dry and windy conditions.
Firefighters urge everyone to use caution when working or recreating in the outdoors, as areas of dead grass and vegetation will ignite easily, and a fire will spread rapidly under windy conditions.
Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473).
A fire ban is now in effect for the central region of the Forest Protection Area and the town of Slave Lake. Under this ban, all outdoor wood fires are prohibited and existing fire permits are suspended.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025 there have been 50 wildfires reported in the Slave Lake Forest Area resulting in a total burned area of 35.82 hectares.
Smoke may be visible in the Buffalo Bay area, southwest of Grouard. Big Lakes Fire Services is monitoring the situation. For further information please visit Big Lakes County website.
To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire Status app or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard
Fire ban
A fire ban is in effect for the central region of the Forest Protection Area. Under this ban, all outdoor wood fires are prohibited and existing fire permits are suspended.
Prohibited
- All outdoor wood fires, including wood campfires on public and private land, designated firepits and backyard firepits
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
Effective Wednesday, May 7 at 4 p.m., a fire ban is in place for the Town of Slave Lake due to current and expected weather conditions, as well as dry grass hazards in the area. This includes private residences and campgrounds.
Effective Thursday, May 8 at 11:30 a.m., a fire ban has also been issued for the Big Lakes County permit area due to current and expected weather conditions, and dry grass hazards. This includes private residences and campgrounds.
To view an up-to-date map of fire bans, restrictions, and advisories across Alberta, visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Ready to respond
Fire lookout observers are watching for smoke. Firefighters, aircraft and heavy equipment are ready to respond to any new wildfires that may start.
Two water-skimming air tankers (CL-215Ts) have arrived in Slave Lake and are ready to support wildfire suppression efforts.
Prevent wildfires
Spring wildfires are almost always human-caused. Please do your part and follow these tips to help prevent wildfires:
- Check your winter burns – Fires started during the winter can smolder underground and reignite in the spring if not fully extinguished. Always ensure your winter burns are completely out.
- Safe trailering- Before towing, always ensure your safety chains are crossed under the hitch and are not dragging. Dragging chains can cause sparks.
- Don’t park in tall grass – The heat from your vehicle’s muffler can ignite dry grass. Always park on bare ground or gravel.
- Use equipment safely – Operate spark-producing equipment away from dry grass and always have a shovel and water source on hand.
- Farming equipment – Clean debris from hot spots regularly and keep firefighting tools like a shovel, pail, and extinguisher nearby.
Find wildfire information
We've updated the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. This interactive map and display provides wildfire locations, statistics and more in one convenient location.
The AB Wildfire Status app remains the best option to view wildfire information on a mobile device.
Apple Store
Google Play
Contact info
Dan Troke
7808435772
[email protected]
Published on May 8, 2025 9:13 am