Alberta Wildfire logo
Alberta’s official fire season will come to an end on October 31, but there are still three active fires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Firefighters and other resources continue to assist with a mutual aid wildfire located 60 kilometres southeast of Fort Smith. That fire, designated MNZ002, is estimated at 383 hectares and remains out of control. Two other wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area are under control and pose no threat to nearby communities.
Since January 1, there have been 62 wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, burning about 79,404 hectares.
A fire advisory remains in effect for the area. Under the advisory, existing fire permits are still valid, but extension requests may not be granted. New fire permits will only be issued for essential burning. Safe, contained campfires are still allowed.
Alberta Wildfire is also asking hunters to be especially cautious this fall. Campfires should be built in safe areas clear of dry grass, twigs, and leaves. Fires should be kept small and never left unattended. Before leaving a site, hunters are reminded to soak, stir, and soak again to ensure the fire is completely out. A fire is considered extinguished only when no heat remains in the ashes.
If you’re planning to go off-roading this Thanksgiving weekend, officials say off-highway vehicles can also spark wildfires. Riders are urged to clean debris from machines before and after use, especially after travelling through tall grass or muskeg. Alberta Wildfire also recommends carrying firefighting tools such as a small shovel, collapsible pail, or fire extinguisher, and stopping often to check for smouldering debris. Mufflers and spark arrestors should be working properly, and off-highway vehicles should never be washed in streams or creeks.
Comments