FIRE RESTRICTION – EFFECTIVE MAY 26, 2023

The Grande Prairie Forest Area has lifted their Fire Ban and OHV restriction. This afternoon, the fire North of Fourth Creek (GWF-018) has been re-classified to “Being Held”.

Alberta Forestry is maintaining a Fire Restriction for the Forest Protection area. Saddle Hills County, Birch Hills County and the Municipal District of Spirit River No. 133 have also downgraded their Fire Bans to Fire Restrictions.

The Fire Restriction allows for safe campfires in campgrounds and on private lands including backyard fire pits.

No campfires are allowed on public lands for random camping or backcountry.

This is a cautious approach, due to all the fires that remain on the landscape, as normally we would not see Restrictions and Bans in so many areas.

We will continue to reassess and adjust as needed moving forward but with a cautious approach, with a dynamic fire season.

Just to be clear…

Not Allowed:

Open campfires in back country or random areas
Fireworks & exploding targets on crown land
Controlled burns of brush piles

Allowed with Caution!

Campfires in non-combustible manufactured firepits
Charcoal briquettes in approved barbeques
Portable Propane firepits
Gas or propane stoves and barbeques
Catalytic or infrared style heaters
Wood fires in an enclosed facility or device, which has a chimney with a spark arrestor
Burning barrel use is permitted at a minimum distance of 30m away from structures and 6m away from combustible materials

We expect this Fire Restriction to reduce the number of human-caused wildfires in the County, while allowing residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities as much as possible.

Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished. If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 9-1-1 or 310-FIRE.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 23, 2023

An update I’m sure we are all glad for! Thanks to the weekend rainfall, the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek, has died down considerably and currently poses no threat to residents.

The Fire Danger level is now LOW, although a Fire Ban and OHV Restriction still remain in effect. We will provide an update on this should there be any changes.

We would once again like to thank the hard-working emergency responders and community members who came together to not only fight the fires, but also provide meals, support, and transport to affected residents and responders. We are grateful to live in a community full of such kindness and support and appreciate everyone who helped during the course of this fire, in any capacity.

While the danger from this fire is currently over we ask that all residents maintain a high level of awareness of this, and any future, fires that get reported in Saddle Hills County. Future wildfire alerts will be used to warn residents if, and when, required.

If you would like to receive updates like this directly to your inbox, sign up for our mailing list by either sending us a direct message with your email address or emailing communications@saddlehills.ab.ca. This list will also be used to inform subscribers of any future fires or emergencies within the County.

Further updates will be provided when available.

Photograph courtesy of the Central Peace Signal

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 19, 2023

There are no significant updates to report on the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek.

Dozer guards are now complete and are currently preventing further fire growth. Firefighters and community volunteers continue to suppress active hotspots.

We can expect smoke in the area for some time, as the fire cools and consumes the remaining fuel. Smoldering will likely continue for days, even possibly weeks. Smoke from wildfires can be harmful to you and your pets. You can monitor air quality through Alberta Health Service at albertahealthservices.ca/news/air and access resources through myhealth.alberta.ca. We will also post some updated wildfire smoke and health resources on our website.

The Evacuation Alert for Saddle Hills County has ended. While the fire is still classified as “Out of Control”, the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire is not currently posing an immediate threat to Saddle Hills County residents.

The below infra-red (MODIS) images taken by a NASA satellite show the Peace River/Cleardale fire on the early morning of May 16, 2023, compared to today, May 19, 2023. As you can see, the fire has died down remarkably.

Residents are asked to maintain a high level of awareness of the status of this fire, and any future fires that get reported in the County. Future wildfire alerts will be used to warn residents if, and when, required.

Our continued thanks to our hard-working emergency responders and warm-hearted community. Thank you for your diligence and support and please continue to be prepared. Emergency preparedness resources are available on our website and through Be Prepared Alberta.

Further updates will be provided when available.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 18, 2023

We are pleased to report that the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek, hasn’t grown in size, and is currently not expected to.

The weather forecast predicts extreme fire behaviour this afternoon and into tomorrow, with cooler temperatures this weekend. No crossover conditions are expected for the weekend and there is the possibility of some rain on Sunday and Monday. Light winds are predicted from the South/Southeast, potentially shifting West, in the coming days.

Alberta Forestry crews and volunteer firefighters continue to work on keeping the fire contained, creating two main dozer lines, North and Northeast towards the Peace River. An additional nodwell is also currently on hand, helping to put out hotspots in the area. Crews continue to work on fire guards and suppression of active fires and hotspots.

The Fire Danger remains Extreme and the Fire Ban and OHV restrictions remain in place.

An update on the Evacuation Alert for residents East of Range Road 81, and North of Township Road 810, is expected later today.

Saddle Hills County would like to extend their thanks to the hard work of emergency responders and the local community fighting the fires, who have risen to the occasion to help protect our community, their neighbours, and local infrastructure.

Please continue to be prepared. Emergency Preparedness resources are available through Be Prepared Alberta.

Further updates will be provided when available.

If you would like to receive fire and emergency updates like this directly to your email address, when they are posted, please sign up to our mailing list by either sending us a direct message with your email address or emailing communications@saddlehills.ab.ca. If anyone who has signed up previously did not receive this update please let us know.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 17, 2023

Firefighting resources have stopped the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire from moving further South into Fourth Creek. A large dozer guard is preventing the fire from crossing Township Road 822. They also prevented the fire from getting into some buffalo corrals in the area. To date, we have not received any reports of structures lost. Crews are staging in the Fourth Creek Gravel Pit and are now building dozer guard North, and Northeast towards the Peace River. As of today, we have County fire personnel committed to this fire, as well as 4 helicopters from Forestry, 20 wildland firefighters, multiple dozers, water tankers and all-terrain suppression vehicles. Crews continue their focus on fire guards, suppression of active fire and hotspots.

The Fire Danger remains Extreme and the Fire Ban and OHV restrictions remain in place.

The Evacuation Alert remains in place for residents East of Range Road 81, and North of Township Road 810, just to guarantee safety and more information will be provided to these residents if an evacuation is required and when this is lifted. A reception centre is open at the Fourth Creek Hall, located at the intersection of Highway 681 and Highway 725, and staffed by amazing community volunteers.

Thank you to the volunteer fire departments, Alberta Forestry ground crews and County staff for their tireless work and dedication and to the community for their support.

Please continue to be prepared. Emergency Preparedness resources are available through Be Prepared Alberta.

Further updates, including an updated map of the fire area, will be provided when available.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 16, 2023

1:50 P.M. – Last night, strong North winds caused the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek, to circumvent the South Cecil fire guard, spreading the fire in a South direction across the correction line (Township Road 830), between Range Road 80 and the Peace River.

An Evacuation Alert was issued to warn area residents, and the Fourth Creek Hall was opened up as a reception centre. Savanna, Bonanza, and Blueberry Fire Departments were dispatched to help mitigate the spread.

The fire slowed after midnight, at approximately Township line 824. This morning, five dozers began building a wide fire guard along Township Road 823, running East towards the Peace River. Before noon, Alberta Forestry arrived on site, with 20 wildland firefighters, four helicopters, and other equipment. The wind is mild today, allowing for workable conditions on the ground. Tomorrow, we will have a tracked vehicle (a nodwell) joining us with a 1000 gallon water tank, pump and spray turret.

The red area on the map does not indicate the size of the current fire, but also includes burned areas.

The evacuation alert remains in place for residents East of Range Road 81, and North of Township Road 810, and more information will be provided to these residents if an evacuation is required. A reception centre has been opened at the Fourth Creek Hall, located at the intersection of Highway 681 and Highway 725. Please continue to be prepared. Emergency preparedness resources are available on our website or through Be Prepared Alberta.

If you would like to receive fire and emergency updates like this from Saddle Hills County, directly to your email address, when they are posted, please sign up to our mailing list by emailing communications@saddlehills.ab.ca.

Thank you to all of our volunteers and staff for their hard work and dedication, and to the community members providing support to firefighters and residents.

We will continue to provide updates as they become available.

WILDFIRE ALERT FOR SADDLE HILLS COUNTY

The Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek, is slowly moving South along the West bank of the Peace River.

Residents East of Range Road 81 and North of Township Road 810 must be prepared to evacuate on a 1-hour notice. A reception Centre has been opened at the Fourth Creek hall located at the intersection of Hwy 681 and Hwy 725. Stay tuned to local media, social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) our website, or call (780) 864-3760 for assistance.

https://www.alberta.ca/aea/cap/2023/05/16/2023-05-16T00_48_57-06_00=CentralPeaceRegionalEmergencyManagementAgency=38527B40-FAE8-429D-87C2-A8E6B8C9F92F.htm

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 15, 2023

With the lower temperatures overnight, the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire’s behaviour has slowed during the late night and early morning. Today’s forecast predicts extreme fire behaviour again in Northern Alberta, starting around 3 p.m. and contiuning through the night.

There was a little fire growth last night but more is expected throughout today. Forestry provided a helicopter yesterday for crews to be able to survey the perimeter on the South side of the river, in Saddle Hills County. The fire guards on the West end of the fire are holding, as what is left of the fire continues to smolder and cool. Fire guards on the South side of the fire remain in place and are being monitored. Unfortunately, we are unable to build dozer guards in the creeks and ravines. In the South Cecil area, crews are building a wide dozer guard East towards the river. The attached images show the effectiveness of the dozer guards currently in place.

Should the wind direction change, staff and response crews are prepared to defend the sites closest to the fires. If sparks and embers begin to blow across the guards into fields, cultivators are standing by to extinguish any spot fires.

Staff are in regular contact with Alberta Forestry, who are monitoring the fire and our progress, with the potential to provide resources, if needed.

There currently remains no immediate threat to residences or plans for evacuation. We will continue to provide updates and alert the public of any dangers, should they occur.

We urge all residents to continue to practice emergency preparedness. Resources are available on our website and through Be Prepared Alberta.

Our next update will be at 1 p.m. tomorrow, unless significant changes occur.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 14, 2023

With the low humidity and higher temperature, the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek, didn’t die down much overnight. Unfortunately, with the current crossover conditions this is likely to continue moving forward. The fire has jumped the river to the East, over to Carter Camp.

The black lines on the attached map show where fire guards are placed, in order to protect the residences closest to the fire. Site reports show that the fire loses most of its intensity when it enters open field, which then dies as it meets the freshly cultivated field. Sparks and embers are the biggest issue, but cultivators are standing by to be used as needed. Savanna Fire Department volunteers and dozers worked through the night in the South division, to monitor the fire and put in protections.

In the South Cecil Division (on the map), the fire has jumped the fire guard, crossing the Spoke Oil Road, and moving Southeast towards the river valley. A new dozer guard has been put in further South, to attempt to cut the fire off as it continues to burn. Air support may be provided by Alberta Forestry, if needed on the Saddle Hills County side of the river.

The residents closest to the fire have been informed and guards and protections put in place. Sprinkler placements have been put in yards to protect structures from sparks, and mobile pumps and hoses are also available. Crews are fairly confident the residences are protected and there remains no immediate threat to other properties within the County and no evacuation orders currently in place.

We urge all residents to continue to be prepared and follow emergency preparedness procedures. Resources are available on our website and through Be Prepared Alberta.

We will provide further updates as information becomes available.

The Savanna Volunteer Fire Department is continuing the dozer guard along the South perimeter of the Peace River Banks/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek, and crews continue to work to put out hotspots along the West, South, and Southeast sides of the fire perimeter. This will help to stop the fire spreading South, should the wind direction change.

The lease roads around the oilfields located between Township Road 840 and the Peace River, between Range Road 75 and Range Road 85, remain closed at this time.

The Fire Danger remains Extreme, with temperatures expected to reach highs of 31 degrees this weekend. Little to no humidity is expected. We urge all residents to be prepared and watch for new fires. You can report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE (3473), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Emergency Preparedness Resources are available through Be Prepared Alberta.

Residents of Saddle Hills County experiencing power outages due to this fire are asked to call the County office at (780) 864-3760 for possible assistance. ATCO are currently estimating that power will be restored on May 12, 2023, by 7 p.m., but this is subject to change.

This will be our last scheduled update on this fire. We will report new information as it becomes available.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 10, 2023

There are no significant changes to report on the Peace River Bank/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek.

County fire services continue to put dozer guards in place and are working on putting out hotspots along the West, South and Southeast sides of the fire perimeter. This will help stop the fire spreading South should the wind direction change.

The Fire Danger remains Extreme as we move into the weekend, and no humidity is expected in the near future.

There continues to be no significant threat to residences in Saddle Hills County and no current evacuation orders in place. The lease roads around the oilfields located between Township Road 840 and the Peace River, between Range Rd 75 and Range Rd 85 remain closed, at this time.

A Provincial Fire Ban and OHV restriction remains in place throughout the Forest Protection Area and on all crown land, including Cotillion Park, Hilltop Lake, and Spring Lake Campgrounds. Saddle Hills County has a Fire Ban in place for all non-Forest Protection Areas within the County. The heat is expected to rise over the weekend and we urge all residents to be prepared and watch for new fires. You can report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE (3473) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You can access more emergency preparedness resources and information on Be Prepared Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness.aspx.

Our next update will be at 12 p.m. tomorrow, unless any significant developments occur.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 9, 2023 – 6 P.M.

There are no significant changes to report on the Peace River Bank/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek, since our earlier update.

The Fire Danger remains Extreme as we move into the weekend, and no humidity is expected in the near future.

Some further images of the fire, taken yesterday evening, help to show the extent of the current fire and some of the damages caused to power lines. These images show the view in Saddle Hills County, photographs taken across the river are from this side looking across to Clear Hills County.

You can access more emergency preparedness resources and information on Be Prepared Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness.aspx.

Our next update will be at 12 p.m. tomorrow, unless any significant developments occur.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 9, 2023 – 12 P.M.

Crews in the area yesterday report that the Peace River Bank/Cleardale fire, North of Fourth Creek, remains mostly on the North side of the river, in Clear Hills County. There are a few hotspots left in Saddle Hills County, seen in the attached map, but these are not expected to move South through the County.

The attached images show a view of the fire area from the air, better illustrating the extent of the fire at this time.

The steep valleys of the larger tributaries to the Peace River, serve as natural fire guards, helping prevent the fire from spreading West, and the likelihood of sparks coming back across the river and igniting further fires is low, due to the lack of heavy timber on the North bank of the Peace River.

Other than some damage to powerline infrastructure, all structures in Saddle Hills County are reportedly intact, including the oilfield facilities. Dozers are currently building fire guards along the South edge of the fire, from Range Road 95 heading Northeast.

You can access more emergency preparedness resources and information on Be Prepared Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness.aspx.

Our next update will be at 6 p.m. today, unless any significant developments occur.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 8, 2023 – 6 P.M.

There are no significant changes to report on the wildfire North of Fourth Creek since this morning’s update. For those unsure of the location of the fire in relation to other areas in the County, the attached map shows the fire as reported today by Alberta Wildfire.

The fire is not currently moving South towards Saddle Hills County residences. No residences are under immediate threat and there is still no evacuation order in place at this time. We are monitoring the fire closely and will update residents when we have further information. Please continue to be prepared and take proactive measures.

Our next update will be at 12 p.m. tomorrow, unless any significant developments occur.

Do you have a Livestock Evacuation Plan? It never hurts to be prepared.

In case of evacuation, it is best practice to ensure you have the following in place:

Identify at least 2 evacuation routes
Locate and prearrange evacuation sites.
Make arrangements for transport vehicles for livestock as well as experienced handlers and drivers.
Arrange for feed and water at the evacuation site.
If animals are evacuated to an area where they will co-mingle with other animals:
- Make sure your animals have sufficient identification (ear tags, brands, tattoos)
- Verify health and vaccination status of animals which must be co-mingled and monitor the well-being of the animals to mitigate the potential for an animal disease problem.
If your pasture meets the following criteria, your animals may be better off out in the pasture than being evacuated:
- Native tree species only
- No overhead powerlines or poles
- No sources of blowing debris
- No barbed wire fencing
- At least one acre (0.4 hectares) of open space

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 8, 2023

There are no significant changes to report on the wildfire North of Fourth Creek. It is continuing to spread slowly, mainly on the North side of the river. We are experiencing cooler weather today, which is expected to continue for the next few days.

County fire resources will be beginning work on the ground today, on the South side of the river, with the resources available.

Reeve Alvin Hubert shared the following regarding the fire North of Fourth Creek, in the Peace River Valley,

“I visited Fourth Creek yesterday, along with CAO, Cary Merritt, Manager of Protective Services, Brice Daly, members of Council, and local firefighters to assess the extent of the wildfire and gain a better understanding of the impact on Saddle Hills County and our residents. Resident safety is our top priority. County staff are working diligently to assess and stay on top of the situation and are regularly in contact with forestry and other Government of Alberta officials, to closely monitor the fire status.

Firefighters from the area can begin work from the ground, on the South side of the river, today, and staff will provide further updates once these become available.

I understand this is a scary and uncertain time for many, and my heart goes out to all those affected by wildfires, both in the Peace Region and throughout Alberta. Council would like to express its appreciation for all the hard-working first responders and their commitment to our communities.

I am grateful to be part of such a strong and resilient community, and I know we can all get through this together.”

Our next update will be at 6 p.m. today, unless any significant developments occur.

In order to provide residents with the most up-to-date information we are moving our 10 a.m. update to 12 p.m. (noon), to be able to provide additional information from forestry.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 7, 2023 – 6 P.M.

The wildfire North of Fourth Creek continues to grow on the North side of the Peace River (map below). Clear Hills County reports that it has jumped both east and west guards due to wind shifts, and has grown in both East and West directions. Fire crews are actively preparing new guards on the East side of the fire. Fields to the North are being tilled, to help to control any movement towards more populated areas.

Our next update will be at 10 a.m. tomorrow, unless any significant developments occur.

FIRE UPDATE – MAY 7, 2023 – 10 A.M.

There is no significant information to report on the growth of the fire North of Fourth Creek (map below). The wind continues from the Southeast. Last night saw some cooler weather, however; hot dry conditions continue in most areas of the province resulting in numerous wildfires and a Provincial State of Emergency has been declared.

The Silverwood fire (below), South of Rycroft is now Under Control. ATCO Electric will be arriving today to replace some power poles that were damaged by fire. The CN rail line has been restored through the burned area and fire guards have been made.

No residences are under immediate threat and there is still no evacuation order in place at this time. We are monitoring the fire closely and will update residents when we have further information. Please continue to be prepared and take proactive measures, more information on Be Prepared Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness.aspx.

Our next update will be at 6 p.m. unless any significant developments occur.

ALBERTA DECLARES PROVINCIAL STATE OF EMERGENCY

The Government of Alberta has issued the following press release in response to the fires of recent days:

In response to the threat of multiple wildfires burning throughout the province, Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency to ensure the safety, health and welfare of Albertans.

Emergency responders are working around the clock to keep people safe and reduce the threat to homes and infrastructure.

Under the Emergency Management Act, declaring a state of emergency is a legal mechanism that provides the provincial government with a higher level of intergovernmental coordination, around the clock monitoring of the situation, access to emergency discretionary funds, the ability to mobilize additional supports and continue working with municipalities, organizations and businesses to support evacuated residents.

The Emergency Management Cabinet Committee continues to meet regularly to respond to the current wildfire situation across the province. Cabinet continues to have decision-making abilities, and will make decisions as needed to deal with this emergency situation.

The ministries involved in the Emergency Management Cabinet Committee include Alberta Public Safety and Emergency Services, Alberta Skilled Trades and Professions, Alberta Infrastructure, Alberta Treasury Board and Finance, Alberta Municipal Affairs, Alberta Health, Alberta Forestry, Parks and Tourism, Alberta Seniors, Community and Social Services, Alberta Indigenous Relations, Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors, Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation and Alberta Energy.

Department officials will continue providing daily technical briefings to the media and the public as this situation continues to evolve. A daily situation report will also be issued via news release.

The most up-to-date evacuation information is available at alberta.ca/emergency, Alberta Emergency Alert or by downloading the Alberta Emergency Alert mobile app, which immediately pushes all alerts out to subscribers. Albertans seeking information or supports can call 310-4455.

Anyone who has been evacuated due to wildfires is asked to register at local reception centres or at emergencyregistration.alberta.ca.

Related information

This view from a NASA satellite infra-red (MODIS) scan (which updates around every 6 hours) shows the fire North of Fourth Creek is in the Peace River valley, has crossed the river, is 10,500 ha in size, most of which is on the North side of the river. Dozer guards are being constructed on the Clear Hills County side to protect structures.

The fire on the South side of the river, in Saddle Hills County, is not currently travelling South but is moving West. Resident’s safety is our top priority. No residences are under immediate threat and there is still no evacuation order in place at this time. We are monitoring the fire closely and will update residents when we have further information. Please continue to be prepared and take proactive measures, more information on Be Prepared Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness.aspx.

Our next update will be at 10 a.m. tomorrow unless any significant developments occur.

Many of our residents are farmers and have large animals on their property. Consider putting an Emergency Management Plan in place for you and your animals.

Here is a list of a few things to consider having in your operation

• Visible identification and proof of ownership for all your animals

• Turning off all power to buildings and homes (emergency dependent)

• Securing all large objects that could become blowing debris (Trailers, tanks, troughs)

• Labelling hazardous materials and placing them all in a safe place.

• Storing chemicals in an area that will not result in runoff or seepage if they are punctured or spilled

• Identifying and removing all potential fire hazards

While there are no current evacuation orders in place, we are asking that all residents take precautionary measures and be prepared. We suggest that residents:

1. Prepare for possible evacuation

2. Mitigate yard sites, by making fire guards around homes & structures,

3. Move firewood, dead vegetation, portable propane tanks, and other combustibles away from homes and buildings,

4. Consider placing sprinklers on homes to wet the roof surfaces, this will help should sparks stop raining down,

5. Cut dead grass around buildings and remove dried leaves and twigs from rain gutters,

6. Pre-wet ground and roof surfaces using water hoses, pumps, etc.

Be Prepared Alberta has more resources to prepare yourself.

FIRE UPDATES – MAY 6, 2023

The fire South of Rycroft is Being Held. It’s been confined to a 50 ha area, including a portion that was intentionally back-burned. It currently poses no threat to the Village or the Town.

None of the G5 communities of Saddle Hills County, Birch Hills County, MD of Spirit River, Town of Spirit River, or Village of Rycroft are currently threatened by fire or evacuation.

We will provide another update on the fire situation at 6 p.m., should there be no major developments.

We encourage you to always be prepared. If you do not have a 72-hour preparedness kit or emergency plan, please consider making one. You can find useful tips and resources online at Be Prepared Alberta.

There is an air quality advisory in effect for the area, due to the smoke from provincial fires. Air quality and visibility can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably.

If you have issues breathing due to the smoke, please contact your healthcare provider. If you are experiencing a health emergency, please call 9-1-1.

FIRE UPDATES

Fourth Creek Fire

This fire is in the Forest Protection Area, approximately 11 km North of Township road 840, and is approximately 2,000 ha in size, and still classified as Out of Control. It has spread North and is now into the Peace River valley, slowly moving West. Oil and gas facilities and the public has been evacuated from the area. Currently, no homes or farms have been affected or evacuated. Forestry is actioning this fire with their resources. The lease roads into this area will be closed until further notice. We will be monitoring the fire closely, should it start moving Southwest, closer to area farms. Contingency plans are being developed to protect dwellings and structures if and when necessary.

Updates will be provided as more information is received.

Other Saddle Hills County Fires

Fire 3 miles South of the County office

This fire was discovered on May 3 and it grew to 3 ha in size before it was brought Under Control. Forestry is currently mopping up this fire, watching for hotspots.

Fire in Silver Valley

This fire was discovered this afternoon, and had since been extinguished.

Fire West of Gordondale on North side of Hwy 49

This fire was discovered this afternoon, and had since been extinguished.

Other Fires in the Surrounding Area

Fire 4 miles South of Rycroft

This fire started this afternoon in the Silverwood area, between Township Roads 772 and 775, near Range Rd 54. The SE wind has been spreading the fire across hayfields and stubble fields, towards the Northwest. As of the time of this update, there is a report of (1) dwelling lost. It’s been confirmed that the dwelling was unoccupied at the time. The Central Peace Fire Dept, Woking FD, Happy Valley FD, Wanham FD, and commercial water tankers are actioning this fire, with the assistance of an air resources from Forestry. Graders and cultivators are also being used to isolate this fire. Smoke is blowing towards the Town of Spirit River, but the threat from fire to the Town and the Village is very low. If fire smoke starts to seriously affect the air quality, information will be provided to the public on how to best deal with the effects. Fire operations is asking for the public to stay away from the area so that they do not interfere with water bombing runs.

Fire near the Spirit Ridge road

This fire was discovered on April 30 and it grew to 7.4 ha in size before it was brought under control. Forestry is currently mopping up this fire, watching for hotspots.

This is a Wildfire Alert for Saddle Hills County

There is an out of control wildfire burning in Saddle Hills County, in the Fourth Creek area, between Township road 840 and the Peace River, between Range Rd 75 and Range Rd 85.

The fire is moving towards the Peace River and is threatening structures in the area.

If you are in this area, evacuate now. This includes any members of the public, as well as industrial personnel. Watch Alberta Emergency Alert or visit the website for updates.

Students at Savanna School will be held at the school until 3:30 pm. Then they will be taken to the Bonanza Fire Hall, due to the fire burning North of Fourth Creek.

FIRE BAN AND OHV RESTRICTION IN EFFECT

A fire ban and OHV restriction is in effect within the Forest Protection Area due to extreme fire danger.

Under this fire ban:

All existing Fire Permits are suspended (or cancelled)

No new Fire Permits will be issued

Prohibited:

All outdoor wood fires are banned, including wood campfires on public lands, wood campfires on private land and provincial campgrounds

Backyard firepits

BBQ charcoal briquettes

The use of fireworks and exploding targets

The recreational use of off-highway vehicles (OHV) on public lands, including designated OHV trails

Allowed:

Propane/natural gas-powered appliances

Open flame oil devices (e.g., turkey deep fryers, tiki torches)

Indoor wood fires contained within a device with a chimney and spark arrestor

All appliances must be CSA approved and used per manufacturer’s standards

Indigenous people when using an OHV for traditional purposes. Traditional purposes are hunting, fishing, and trapping – including the use of an OHV to travel to the location(s) for these purposes.

Essential industry-related activities requiring the use of OHVs.

Off-highway vehicle use is still permitted on private lands.

If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.

The fire ban will remain in effect until conditions improve.

Due to rising fire conditions, and higher temperatures, Saddle Hills County’s Fire Advisory has been upgraded to a Fire Restriction. See https://albertafirebans.ca

There is also a Fire Restriction in place throughout the Central Alberta Forest Protection Area, which includes the Grande Prairie Forest Area, which includes all Forest Protection Area in Saddle Hills County.

This is not a total Fire Ban, however; the following restrictions are now in effect:

Not Allowed:

· Open campfires in back country or random areas

· Fireworks & exploding targets on crown land

· Brush & debris burning for non-agricultural purpose

· Controlled burns of brush piles greater than 2 cubic meters in size

Allowed with Caution!

· Campfires in non-combustible manufactured firepits

· Charcoal briquettes in approved barbeques

· Portable Propane firepits

· Gas or propane stoves and barbeques

· Catalytic or infrared style heaters

· Wood fires in an enclosed facility or device, which has a chimney with a spark arrestor

· Burning barrel use is permitted at a minimum distance of 30m away from structures and 6m away from combustible materials

Allowed with Municipal Notification Requirements and a Fire Suppression Plan in Place:

· Agricultural brush & debris burning (less than 2 cubic meters in size), if in a cultivated field or other fire guard in place.

This fire restriction will remain in place until conditions improve.

A FIRE ADVISORY is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area, including all of Saddle Hills County, due to drying conditions and high wind. This is not a ban.

Under this advisory:
• Existing fire permits are still valid.
• New permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis

Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.

When operating equipment, clear debris from moving parts, check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass. Keep watch of your surroundings and ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available. Equipment fires or work-related sparks, friction and hot exhaust can cause even small amounts of dry fuels to ignite into a wildfire.

If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE

The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.

OHVs and Wildfires

Stay safe while enjoying your time off! Debris falling from off-highway vehicles have been known to cause wildfires.

Exhaust systems heat up to temperatures in excess of 200°C. At these temperatures, built up materials and debris on your machine (such as grass, muskeg, moss, or other debris) can heat up, smoulder and ignite. The smouldering debris can drop to the ground as you are riding, starting a wildfire.

You can reduce the risk of your vehicle causing a wildfire by following these simple steps.

– Before you ride, clean out hot spots and remove debris from your machine.

– After riding through muskeg or tall grass, stop and remove any build-up from your machine.

– Carry firefighting equipment such as a small shovel, collapsible pail or fire extinguisher.

– Wash your OHV and keep it clean; do not wash in streams and creeks.

– Make sure your muffler and spark arrestor are working properly.

– Stop frequently. Take the time to knock debris from your machine’s hot spots. If the debris is smouldering, soak it, stir it, and soak it again to make sure it is extinguished.

For more information: https://www.alberta.ca/off-highway-vehicle-safety.aspx….

Alberta Emergency Alert Test March 1st

A provincial test of the emergency alerting system will happen on Wednesday, March 1 at 1:55pm.
Test messages will be issued over TV, radio, cell phones and tablets. Check your phone’s compatibility at https://www.alertready.ca/
Albertans are also encouraged to download the Alberta Emergency Alert mobile app to ensure they receive all emergency notifications for their area. Get it for iOS and Android at www.alberta.ca/emergencyalert
When you receive the alert, take a moment to reflect on how prepared you would have been if that alert were real.
Visit Alberta.ca/BePrepared to learn more.

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Winter Fire Safety

Winter Burn Piles – How To

Before burning wood debris or brush this winter, make sure you have the proper tools on hand and only burn what you can control. Remember you are responsible for all fires you light and it is important to check your burn site over the winter months for signs of a holdover fire.

Use the following guidelines when preparing to burn brush piles or windrows https://bit.ly/3vuRJZ7

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Winter Preparedness Resources

Now that winter is here, we have compiled a list of the winter preparedness resources on Alberta.ca to make it as easy as possible for you to share preparedness information with your communities.

Follow the links in the table below for guidance on how to be prepared for winter.

Webpage	Blizzards, freezing rain, ice storms and extreme cold	Learn about blizzards and extreme cold conditions and what you can do to protect yourself and others.
Fact sheet	Blizzards, freezing rain, and ice storms (English)	This fact sheet explains how to be prepared when faced with a severe storm. Download, print or share. The factsheet can be downloaded in 10 different languages from the dedicated webpage.
Get Prepared: 60 Second Emergency Tip video	How can you prepare for extreme cold?	Learn how to stay safe when the temperature drops below -40°C or wind chill makes it feel that cold.
Infographic	Winter hazards preparedness infographic	Severe winter weather can be dangerous without a plan. Protect yourself and others by knowing the risks of winter hazards and make a plan.
Web directory	Attached	This directory identifies what products the Be Prepared program offers and where they are located on the web.
Webpage	Safer winter highways	Learn how to winterize your vehicle and stay safe on roadways during winter.
Webpage	Working in extreme temperatures	Health and safety information and work site practices for working in extreme cold or heat.

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Please Be Careful

Whenever possible use an existing campfire facility such as rings and pits for your campfire. These facilities are available in many campgrounds and recreation area and are designed to help contain a fire and prevent it from spreading. If no campfire facilities are available, use sites that are clear of dry grass, bushes, leaves, branches, tree trunks, peat moss, and overhanging branches. If the site has already been used for a campfire, use the same site.

The Forest and Prairie Protection Act include fines for abandoning campfires as well as for using fireworks and exploding targets in forested areas learn more here.

Albertans living or working in the Forest Protection Area of the province can request a free fire permit by contacting your local forestry office or using the new, convenient online Fire Permit Portal. Anyone living outside the Forest Protection Area can contact their municipality for information about local fire permit requirements.

County West / Grovedale – (780) 814-1648
Spirit River – (780) 814-1983
Valleyview – (780) 524-6576

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Wildfire Information At Your Fingertips

Two new web applications will make it easier for Albertans to access important wildfire information.

A wildfire dashboard and fire permit portal join the Alberta Wildfire app as key technologies that put critical wildfire management and prevention information directly into the hands of Albertans.

“Albertans want to be in the know during wildfire season and do their part to prevent human-caused wildfires. Last year, 67 per cent of wildfires were caused by humans. These new tools will empower residents and visitors with the information they need to make smart decisions during wildfire season.”

Nate Horner, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development

Wildfire dashboard

The new wildfire dashboard provides up-to-date wildfire information at the click of a button. This interactive tool displays important statistics on the number of active wildfires in the province, sizes, locations, suspected causes and more.

The dashboard builds on the former wildfire status map by displaying the most frequently accessed information in one convenient location.

Fire permit portal

Albertans living or recreating in the Forest Protection Area of the province can request a free fire permit using the new, convenient online fire permit portal.

Permits are required for burning activities other than campfires during wildfire season and help focus firefighting resources where they are needed most. Fire permits help ensure that when smoke or fire is reported, wildfire officials can determine whether this is a wildfire or a permitted burn.

Each permit is unique and outlines the restrictions and conditions for your burn, including location, wind speed, time and date of burn and any suppression tools required. Permits may be suspended or cancelled in the event of a fire advisory, restriction or ban.

Fire permits can still be requested over the phone by calling your local forest area office.

Anyone living outside of the Forest Protection Area should contact their local municipality for more information about fire permits in their area.

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Wildfire Season Started March 1st

As of March 1, a fire permit is required for all burning, with the exception of a campfire in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.

To avoid accidentally starting a holdover fire, it’s important to check all burn areas to ensure they are out. To properly extinguish a fire, completely soak the area with water, stir up the ashes and soak the area again. Always check for hot spots around your fall and winter burn sites. Feel for heat in the spring and times of dry windy weather. To report a wildfire call 310-FIRE (3473)

Wildfire Situation

Windy weather and outdoor burning is a dangerous combination. During times of high wildfire danger, grass fires can start and spread fast. It is important to use caution while working or recreating in Alberta’s forests.

Since March 1, 2021 there have been 12 wildfires burning nearly six hectares in the Grande Prairie Forest Area. At this time, 11 of these fires have been extinguished and one is listed as under control. For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca

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Monitor Current Fire Bans, Wildfire Status, Smoke Conditions & Weather Alerts

Fire season in Alberta began March 1st every year. Permits are required for all burning except campfires in the Forest Protection Area.

Fire Ban status in Alberta can be monitored by the smart phone app “Fire Bans” app or by visiting; https://albertafirebans.ca .
Wildfire Status in Alberta can be monitored by the (new) smart phone app “AB Wildfire Status” app or by visiting; https://wildfire.alberta.ca/wildfire-status/status-map.aspx .

Current smoke conditions can be monitored at: https://firesmoke.ca/forecasts/current/
Monitor Public Weather Alerts for Alberta at: https://weather.gc.ca/warnings/index_e.html?prov=ab
BC Wildfire Map: https://governmentofbc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/f0ac328d88c74d07aa2ee385abe2a41b

To help protect your home from wildfire, FireSmart it:

remove flammable items that are within 5 feet of your property
keep roof and gutters free from debris
prune trees and shrubs regularly
conduct a FireSmart home assessment

Talk to your neighbors about what you can do to FireSmart your community.
Learn more about how you can FireSmart your property, your community and your industry.

Resources:

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EMERGENCIES CAN HAPPEN ANYTIME

Make a plan. Create a kit. Stay informed.

There are various ways to stay informed of emergencies in the Central Peace and around Alberta.

These include:

Alberta Emergency Alerts are issued to provide you with critical information about an immediate emergency, where it is occurring, and what actions you nee to take. Alerts are distributed in various ways, including: radio, television, social media, RSS feed, and the Alberta Emergency Alert App. Download the app to stay informed through your mobile device.
Wireless alerting is another tool to receive emergency alerts. Wireless public alerts are issued to cell phones within a defined geographic area. These alerts are only issued for threat-to-life situations. You can learn more at alertready.ca, and check if your phone is compatible to receive wireless alerts. Sign-up is not required as all cell-phones are automatically registered.
Municipal sources: Be careful of the authenticity of some of the information that is being shared. It is best to use trusted municipal sources for local information