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Very High wildfire danger
The fire danger in the Whitecourt Forest Area is very high due to hot and dry conditions expected for the area. This is predicted to last for the duration of the week. Wildfires can easily start and spread in these conditions. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could potentially spark a wildfire.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 60 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area that have burned 2,795 hectares. There are currently 2 active wildfires burning in the Forest Area. Both are classified as under control.
Learn more about wildfire status and view active wildfires, their locations and statistics on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
Smoke in the area
Smoky conditions are present in the area due to large wildfires from the Northwest Territories as well as some in Alberta. With a cold front moving through the area smoke drifts are moving south into the region.
Please call Health Link at 811 if you’re having respiratory problems due to smoke. Visit FireSmoke Canada to see where wildfire smoke is coming from.
Wildfire prevention
High temperatures are expected again this week and with that we ask all residents to use extreme caution when enjoying the outdoors. Here are some steps you can take to operate and recreate safely in the forested areas.
Recreating
- Use your off-highway vehicle during hours of dawn and dusk when temperatures are cooler
- If you plan to have a campfire have it in a fire safe ring and ensure there is no dry vegetation nearby that embers could ignite
- Always fully extinguish your campfire by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again
- Avoid any heavy burning and comply with guidelines on your fire permit
Operating
- Maintain your equipment by continuously inspecting for any wear and tear
- Ensure machine parts are well lubricated to reduce sparking potential
- Check fluid levels on equipment like oil, coolant and other fluids to avoid overheating the engine components
- Stop often to cool machines down during hot days
- Hay bales can spontaneously combust under hot and dry conditions. To avoid accidently starting a wildfire consider baling outside the peak burning hours of (3pm-7pm) as this is when wildfires are more likely to occur and spread quickly
- Always carry firefighting equipment with you like a fire extinguisher, shovel, and water vessel
Hunting season
If you're heading out into the forest to hunt and you're having a campfire we ask that you keep your campfires small, safe, and always attended. Before leaving the site or going to bed, ensure your campfire is completely extinguished. Soak the fire with water, stir the ashes, and soak it again to ensure it’s out. The fire is fully extinguished when you can no longer feel any heat from the ashes.
Get your free fire permit
You will need a fire permit for any burning in the Forest Protection Area, except for a campfire, from March 1 to October 31.
Fire permits ensure safe burning practices are being followed and allow staff to know where burning is approved. Municipalities may have rules and restrictions in place. If assistance is required, call the area office at 780-778-7153 during regular business hours.
Lean more about safe burning practices.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on August 31, 2025 10:42 am