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High wildfire danger
The average wildfire danger in the Whitecourt Forest Area has increased to high. Although overnight temperatures are generally low and humidity levels higher, warm daytime conditions quickly dry vegetation, keeping the fire danger elevated. At this time of year, vegetation will continue to dry out, increasing the risk of fast moving wildfires. A fire restriction remains in place for the forest area. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could spark a wildfire.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction is in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area due to current wildfire hazard and forecasted weather conditions.
Under this restriction:
- No new burn permits will be issued.
- All current fire permits issued are suspended until further notice. This includes burn barrels and incinerators.
- All outdoor fires presently burning, whether set under the authority of a fire permit or not, are required to be extinguished.
Prohibited:
- Outdoor wood fires on public lands including backcountry and random camping areas
- Any burning, other than a campfire on private land
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes on public land in the backcountry and in random camping areas
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Safe wood campfires on private land including provincial campgrounds with a designated fire ring
- Backyard firepits
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes on private land and in provincial campgrounds
- Propane fire pits and natural gas powered appliances
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to see the restriction area on a map.
Wildfire Situation
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 64 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area that have burned 2,795 hectares. There is currently 1 active wildfire burning in the Forest Area and is 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.
Prevent wildfires
Hunting season
Hunting season is now underway. Remember, under a fire restriction, campfires are not allowed in random backcountry camping areas. If you are in an area permitted to have a campfire (such as on private land), ensure you are doing so safely:
- Build campfires in safe areas, clear of grass, twigs and leaves.
- Keep fires small and never leave them unattended.
- Extinguish your campfire before going to bed or leaving the site. Soak it, stir it and soak it again.
- A fire is out only when no heat remains in the ashes.
Off-highway vehicle safety
When riding an off-highway vehicle (OHV), stop often and remove the debris that accumulates on your machine. Dry grass that is heated by your exhaust can start a wildfire when it falls to the ground.
Farming and agricultural equipment
Fires started by agricultural equipment are not uncommon. Getting into the habit of doing a quick check of the equipment for fire hazards including debris and buildup on the engine, exhaust system, belts and chains can greatly reduce the risk of causing a new wildfire. When operating equipment, it is also important to pay attention to the surroundings. A spark created by equipment hitting a rock can be all it takes for dry materials to start smouldering and start a wildfire in fields, ditches and along roadways.
If a fire does occur, having a fire extinguisher and a shovel handy will improve the chances of slowing or stopping a fire before it can turn into a major wildfire.
Contact info
Jacquie Dewar
780-268-5175
[email protected]
Published on September 25, 2025 5:10 pm