Fort McMurray Area Update

Fort McMurray Forest Area Wildfire Update - December 5, 2023

Posted on Tue, Dec 05, 2023

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WILDFIRE DANGER

The wildfire danger is LOW in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.

Wildfires can still start in cooler weather, especially in dry and windy conditions. Always use caution in forested areas. 

Report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE (3473).


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WINTER BURNING

Fire permits are no longer required in the Forest Protection Area, but you are still responsible for any burning project that you take on.

Holdover fires are likely to occur this year due to dry conditions. A fire lit in the winter and left smouldering can burn under the snow and into the ground all winter long. Under the right conditions, these fires can re-emerge in the spring as wildfires. To prevent spring wildfires, check your winter burn sites frequently and ensure that all fires are completely extinguished.

Wait until there are at least 15 cm of snow on the ground before burning and follow our safe burning guidelines


 

FORT MCMURRAY WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1, 2023 there have been 67 wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, burning a total of 364,359 hectares (ha). 

There are currently 15 wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. All of these wildfires are under control. 


PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE

Since January 1, 2023 in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, there have been 1,121 wildfires burning a total of approximately 2,211,963 ha. Visit Alberta Wildfire Status to view active wildfires across Alberta.

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WINTER CAMPFIRES

It's been easy to take advantage of the mild weather Alberta has been experiencing but it's important to remember there is still a risk for wildfires. If you are having a winter campfire remember to fully extinguish it before leaving. Campfires can smoulder and reignite very easy under current conditions. Soak your campfire, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch.

Applications-Open-Nov-1st-TWITTER-ENFIRESMART

It’s that time of year again! Wildfire Community Preparedness Day applications are now open.

If you’re new to FireSmart, Prep Day is about neighbourhoods coming together to work on a project to reduce their wildfire risk. You can apply for a $500 award to fund your neighbourhood project! Learn more about Community Preparedness Day

To learn more on how you can protect your home and structures from wildfire, visit FireSmart Canada or download the Farm and Acreage FireSmart magazine.


CONTACT

Provincial Information Officer

wildfireinfo@gov.ab.ca

780-420-1968 

 

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