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Very High wildfire danger
The fire danger level is very high throughout the entire Whitecourt Forest Area. We're expecting warmer temperatures for the next few days. Grass, leaves and other vegetation will quickly dry out and could fuel a fast-moving wildfire. Please use caution if you are spending time or working outside.
If you see smoke or flame in the forest please call 310-FIRE (3473).
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025 there have been 20 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 12 hectares (ha). Learn more about active wildfires, their locations and statistics on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
Wildfire SWF076 was detected today and is currently 65 hectares. This wildfire is in the Slave Lake Forest Area but smoke may be visible from the Town of Swan Hills. The wildfire is approximately 8 km north of Swan Hills. Current winds are moving the fire west, away from Swan Hills. For more information on this wildfire please visit the Slave Lake Forest Area wildfire update.
Choose your campfire site
In campgrounds or recreational areas, use the designated stoves, fire rings or fire pits for your campfire. These are designed to keep fires from spreading and are the best choice for a safe campfire. When outside of a campground, use sites that are clear of dry grass and vegetation. Clear the site down to bare mineral soil, keep it sheltered from wind and always have water nearby in case your campfire escapes.
When you're done, always soak it, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch. Never leave our campfire unattended. Visit campfire safety for more information.
Alberta Fire Bans
The majority of the Whitecourt Forest Area is free from any fire bans with the exception of the Swan Hills area that is now under a fire restriction. To view more information specific to your location please visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Get your free fire permit
As of March 1, fire permits are required for all burning within the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of campfires. Get your fire permit online. If you require assistance, contact the Whitecourt Forest Area office at 780-778-7153 from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.
Please only burn debris under the conditions outlined on your fire permit. It is recommended that if the winds are gusting over 15 km/h or increase beyond the limit on your permit, immediately extinguish your fire.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on May 25, 2025 3:36 pm