A grass fire was identified yesterday (May 11) in the Slave Lake Forest Area.

It was caused by a spark from grinding metal, making it the second fire in the area caused by working in dry grass. Alberta Wildfire is reminding people ensure the area is free of flammables and have firefighting equipment such as a shovel and water on hand when welding or grinding.

Over the next several weeks, firefighters will be burning areas of dry grass in and around many communities in the Slave Lake Forest Area. These burns are conducted by trained firefighters and under specific conditions to ensure they are controlled and to minimize smoke. Spring grass burning lessens the risk of human–caused fires and helps protect homes and communities from future wildfires.

The wildfire danger is high for the area, and an off highway vehicle restriction is in effect. This restriction is in effect for the High Level Forest Area, Peace River Forest Area, the northwestern portion of the Slave Lake Forest Area and the rural areas surrounding Fort McMurray.

A fire ban is also in effect still for the area and much of the Northern Alberta. 

Since March 1 in the Slave Lake Forest Area, there have been 16 wildfires which have burned a total of 3.65 hectares.

The McMillan wildfire from last season is still under control.