Grande Prairie Winter Fire (CC: Alberta Wildfire)

By Tanner Smith

Wildfires

Winter holdover fires “likely to occur” due to recent dry weather

Nov 27, 2023 | 12:48 PM

Alberta Wildfire is reminding residents about safe burning practices over the winter, due to the current mild, dry weather.

Since wildfire season ended on October 31, 19 new wildfires have started, with 70 fires still actively burning in Alberta right now.

As strong winds are expected in the next couple of days, Alberta Wildfire also suggests avoiding any burning practices until winds die down.

Whitecourt Winter Fire (CC: Alberta Wildfire)

The latest Grande Prairie Forest Area update says firefighters are urging residents to use caution when burning over the winter, as the “extremely dry conditions in the ground” will likely lead to winter holdover fires.

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Lac La Biche Winter Fire (CC: Alberta Wildfire)

Information Officer for the Grande Prairie Forest Area, Kelly Burke says in a release; “It’s incredibly important that Albertans stay informed to prevent wildfires, as there could be more to come before the year is over.”

Grande Prairie Winter Fire (CC: Alberta Wildfire)

In the Grande Prairie Forest Area update, Alberta Wildfire provided a list of safe winter burning practices for residents to reference:

• Refrain from burning when an inversion is in place or is forecasted.
• Consult local municipalities and authorities on how to mitigate impacts when undertaking larger winter burning projects near communities or roadways.
• Actively manage burn projects to reduce disposal time and smoke impacts.
• Burning debris in stages will allow you to adapt to changing weather conditions and reduce smoke.
• Monitor weather conditions: lower temperatures and lighter wind speeds can result in stronger inversions.
  Whitecourt Winter Fire (CC: Alberta Wildfire)

Anyone wanting more information about the current Alberta wildfire status, winter holdover fires, or safe burning practices, visit Alberta Wildfire.

If you see smoke or flames in a forested area, call 310-FIRE (3473).