McKinley Crescent Wildfire, RMWB supplied image.
FORT MCMURRAY — An illegal abandoned campfire caused last week’s wildland fire in a wooded area behind McKinley Crescent, according to a Regional Emergency Services investigation.
Fire crews responded to the area at about 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 26 and found a growing fire in the forest about 300 metres from several homes.
Fort McMurray firefighters were joined by an Alberta Wildfire helicopter team and brought the fire under control. It was largely extinguished within a few hours.
Firefighters returned the following day to extinguish a hotspot that had rekindled.
Investigators found wood and other debris, including a couch, at the site and determined an unauthorized campfire had spread into tall grass and bushes before reaching nearby trees.
“This was an illegal campfire that was carelessly abandoned and without the quick actions of Fort McMurray and Alberta Wildfire firefighters, it may have caused significant concerns for neighbouring homes,” Regional Fire Chief Jody Butz said.
“We are experiencing drier conditions, and the wildfire hazard is now higher than it has been for most of the summer, so please be safe.”
Regional Emergency Services says it has responded to 36 illegal outdoor fires in Fort McMurray so far this year.
Outdoor fires are prohibited within the urban service area without a permit, with exceptions for safe residential backyard fire pits and designated fire pits in municipal parks.
Violations of the municipality’s Outdoor Fire Bylaw can carry fines of up to $1,200. Costs could be significantly higher if firefighting expenses are assessed.
Residents should call 911 to report a fire threatening people or homes. Fires in forested areas can be reported to Alberta Wildfire at 310-FIRE.
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