WESTLOCK COUNTY — Multiple wildfires continue to challenge emergency crews in Westlock County, prompting a state of local emergency and a full fire ban across the region.
As of 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 7, two major wildfires in the area are being held, according to Westlock County officials.
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LCU007, the fire located between Township Road 630 and Range Road 261 to Range Road 255, remains active but is currently being held. Fire crews remain on scene checking for hot spots and ask residents to avoid the area to allow them to work safely.
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LCU006, located south of Fawcett, is also being held with crews still on site. The public is again reminded to stay out of the area.
County officials are requesting that residents who may have resources to aid in the firefighting effort contact the County Office at 780-349-3346. Another update is scheduled for noon today.
Fire Ban Now in Effect
Amid dry, windy, and warm conditions, Westlock County has implemented a full fire ban, effective immediately. The ban prohibits:
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Open fires on both public and private lands
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Use of burn barrels (unless certified)
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Fireworks and exploding targets
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Charcoal briquette barbecues
All existing fire permits are now suspended or cancelled, and no new permits will be issued. Recreational target shooting and off-highway vehicle use on public land are also prohibited. However, OHV use on private land and by individuals exercising constitutionally protected rights is still allowed.
Permitted: Propane or natural gas-powered appliances for cooking and warming.
Residents in Forest Protection Area Zone 44 must also follow the provincial fire ban and consult the Alberta Fire Control Zone Map at wildfire.alberta.ca.
For ongoing fire restriction updates, visit albertafirebans.ca.
