Fort McMurray Area Update

Due to the downturn in weather in the Fort McMurray Forest Area the Fire Ban and OHV Restriction have been lifted.

The Fire Ban and OHV restriction has been amended within the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. The Fire Ban and OHV Restriction now applies to the High Level Forest Area, and the majority of the Peace River, Grande Prairie, Slave Lake, and Lac La Biche Forest Areas.

To view a map of the Fire Ban/OHV Restriction visit www.albertafirebans.ca 

or phone 1-866-FYI-FIRE (1-866-394-3473). 

Although the restrictions have been lifted fire personnel continue to deal with large fires in other parts of the Forest Protection Area. 

Please be vigilant with campfires and never leave them unattended. SOAK the ashes, STIR them, and SOAK them again to make sure the fire is completely out.

When operating an OHV please clean any debris that has built up near the exhaust and muffler, under the seat, in wheel wells and around the engine. Always carry a small fire extinguisher, a collapsible shovel and water. These tools can help extinguish a wildfire and safely dispose of hot debris.

Smoke in the Fort McMurray Area is drifting in from fires in northern Alberta. There are currently no fires causing a threat near Fort McMurray. 

If you experience respiratory difficulties, visit Alberta Health Link or dial 811. Visit www.firesmoke.ca to view the most current smoke forecast.

Current Situation

There are currently no active fires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.

Since March 1, 2019, Alberta has recorded 552 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta that have burned a total of 668,829.91 hectares.

Fire lookouts are on high alert constantly watching for smoke, as well as patrols in helicopters. Various pieces of heavy equipment, air tankers, helicopters and firefighters are ready to respond to any new starts.