Fort McMurray Area Update

Wildfire Danger

Current Wildfire Danger: The current wildfire danger is MODERATE/HIGH in the Fort McMurray area and VERY HIGH in the Fort Chipewyan and Fort Smith areas. A Fire Advisory is in effect. Precipitation has been received at stations in the southeast portion of the Forest Area. This has decreased the fire behaviour potential in those areas however fire danger increases to the north toward Fort Chipewyan and Fort Smith. Lower temperatures and higher relative humidity over the fire areas will assist crews in progress on containing the fires.

Smoky conditions in Fort McMurray are due to wildfires in BC, NWT and AB. There is no threat of wildfire in the urban area. If you see smoke that is creating a safety concern on roadways, please report it to Alberta 511.

• If you have smoke-related health concerns related, please contact Alberta Health Link at 1-866-408-5465. Information about the air quality in Alberta is available through Alberta’s Air Quality Health Index or by phone, toll-free, at 1-877-247-7333.

Click here to view today's wildfire danger map.

Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 

FIRE ADVISORY IN EFFECT 

A Fire Advisory has been issued for the Fort McMurray Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area due to current and forecast weather. 

Under this advisory, all existing permits will be canceled (including burn barrels) and no new permits will be issued. 

Prohibited - any burning other than a campfire 

Allowed

• Safe wood campfires in campgrounds (within fire rings) or random camping areas
• Charcoal briquettes
• Portable propane fire pits
• Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
• Catalytic or infrared-style heaters 

Remember to check the hot spots on your Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) and remove debris before and after use. 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 310-FIRE.The Fire Advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.

Wildfire Situation Reports

Since March 1, 2017 there have been 82 fires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. One is out of control, one is being held, 5 are under control and 75 have been extinguished.

Provincially, there are currently 28 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Nine wildfires are out of control, 4 are being held, 12 are under control and 3 have been turned over to the responsible parties.

Since March 1, Alberta has recorded 1,019 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 14,779 hectares. 

Stay current on Alberta's wildfire situation, download the Alberta Wildfire mobile app for Android or Apple  products. You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Forest and Prairie Protection Act | Legislative and Regulatory Changes

The Alberta government is committed to protecting Albertans and their communities from the threat of wildfire. Many wildfires are caused by human-activity, approximately 70% over the past 6 years, and are 100 per cent preventable.

Last fall legislation was passed to enhance wildfire prevention, to deter risky behaviour and give wildland firefighters more tools to keep Albertans and their communities safe.

For complete details click here.

Stay current on Alberta's wildfire situation, download the Alberta Wildfire mobile app for Android or Apple  products. You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Alberta Wildfire Blog: blog.wildfire.alberta.ca

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