Fort McMurray Area Update

Fort McMurray Forest Area Wildfire Update - August 30

Posted on Wed, Aug 30, 2017

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Moderate west winds with strong gusts have increased the fire hazard to extreme in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. The current wildfire danger is HIGH in Fort Chipewyan and Fort Smith. It is VERY HIGH to EXTREME in Fort McMurray. Click here to view today's wildfire danger map. Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 


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

Under this advisory, no new fire permits will be issued. All existing permits for incinerators and burn barrels will remain active, though we ask people to refer to the conditions on their permit before burning.

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  
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 it's cool to the touch to ensure it is fully extinguished. 

Wildfire Situation Reports

Since March 1, 2017 there have been 88 fires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. There are currently four wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. One is being held and three remain under control. There is no threat to community or infrastructure.

Provincially, there are currently 14 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Five wildfires are being held, seven are under control and two have been turned over to the responsible parties.

Since March 1, Alberta has recorded 1,095 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 20,789.82 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

CONTACTS

Inside the Urban Service Area contact: Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo 780-792-5519 

Outside the Urban Service Area contact: Agriculture and Forestry at 780-743-7125 


Lynn Daina

Information Officer

mobile: 780-799-9253

wildfire.alberta.ca 

 

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