Recent rainfall and cooler temperatures have resulted in low fire danger across the Slave Lake Forest Area. Despite this, fires can still lignite under the right conditions. Please continue to be cautious during any activity that can cause a spark.
Wildfire situation
There are no active wildfires in the Slave Lake Forest Area.
Firefighters in the forest area have responded to 64 wildfires since January 1, 2026, and just 41 hectares have burned.
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.
Fire safety while harvesting
Steps can be taken to lower the risk of wildfire from farm equipment.
Check for the following fire hazards before starting work each day:
- Any buildup of crop residue around the engine, exhaust system, belts and chains.
- Damaged exhaust components.
- Worn or frayed belts.
- Signs of leaking fluids, oils and fuels.
Combines and balers can present different types of problems. Check for:
- Buildup of combustible crop residue around the engine and exhaust system.
- Concealed drive belts and pulleys that can contribute to the accumulation of crop residue that can overheat due to friction.
Regular maintenance is the key to preventing wildfires caused by agricultural equipment. Remember to:
- Keep bearings and gears well lubricated to prevent buildup.
- Remove crop residue from areas prone to generate normal heat.
- Replace worn and broken belts as soon as possible.
- Keep lubricants at proper levels.
- Repair or replace damaged or worn-out exhaust systems. In addition to a good exhaust system, a spark arrester can be installed to catch burning particles.
- Repair damaged electrical wiring.
Keep one or more fire extinguishers on machinery and know how to use them.
For more information about how you can prevent wildfires from starting on your property, check out the FireSmart Farm and Acreage magazine.
Forest health and pests
An infestation of forest tent caterpillars this summer has left many landowners concerned about the health of their trees. If you've ever wondered what might be affecting yours, try this diagnostic tool.
The online Alberta Forest Pest Damage Diagnostic System provides Albertans with an expansive database detailing host trees, symptoms, biology, impact, terms and images related to forest pests in Alberta.
If you burn it, get a permit
From March 1 to October 31, fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
Fire permits are free and can be requested online. Visit firepermits.alberta.ca to request your fire permit online or call your local Forestry Office:
- Slave Lake 780-849-7377
- Wabasca 780-891-3860
- High Prairie 780-523-6619
Contact info
Jody Lucius
780-805-0312
[email protected]
Published on September 4, 2026 9:40 am