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Wildfire update

Slave Lake Forest Area - May 16, 2025

Very High wildfire danger

The wildfire danger is very high in the Slave Lake Forest Area due to warm temperatures and dry conditions. Please use caution when working or spending time outdoors, as a fire will ignite easily and spread quickly.

Wildfire situation

There were 4 new wildfires reported in the Slave Lake Forest Area yesterday. All were quickly contained and extinguished. The causes of these wildfires are under investigation.

Since January 1, 2025 there have been 65 wildfires reported in the Slave Lake Forest Area, burning a total of 38 hectares. To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire Status app or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard

Ready to respond

Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE(3473). Fire lookout observers are watching for smoke and firefighters with aircraft and heavy equipment are ready to respond to any new wildfires that may start.

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

A fire ban is in place for the Town of Slave Lake, the Town of High Prairie, and the Big Lakes County permit area. To view an up-to-date map of fire bans, restrictions, and advisories across Alberta, visit Alberta Fire Bans.

Firefighters thank you for cooperating with the fire ban this long weekend. By following the ban, you help prevent human-caused wildfires.

Prevent wildfires

Spring wildfires are almost always human-caused. Please do your part and follow these tips to help prevent wildfires:

  • Off-highway vehicles- Stop frequently and remove debris build-up from your machine's hot spots. Carry firefighting equipment such as a shovel, collapsible pail or fire extinguisher.
  • 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.  

Contact info

Leah Lovequist
780-849-0945
[email protected]

Published on May 16, 2025 10:37 am