FORT McMURRAY — Smoke may be visible across parts of the region this month as crews carry out controlled burns aimed at reducing wildfire risk.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo says Regional Emergency Services firefighters began hazard reduction burns May 1 and will continue throughout the month as conditions allow.
Officials say the burns will take place within the urban service area of Fort McMurray once snow has cleared and weather conditions are suitable. Alberta Wildfire crews are also expected to support operations and conduct additional burns in rural areas of the municipality.
The controlled burns are designed to remove dry vegetation such as grass, leaves and dead wood that accumulate over winter, helping limit the spread and intensity of potential wildfires.
Residents are being advised to expect visible flames and smoke in targeted areas and to avoid active burn sites to allow crews to work safely. Signs will be posted in nearby locations, and people living close to burn areas are encouraged to keep windows closed to reduce smoke exposure.
Planned burn areas include locations in Fort McMurray west, Abasand, Saprae Creek, Gregoire Lake, Fort Chipewyan and the Fort Smith–Fort Fitzgerald corridor, with sizes ranging from small parcels to strips covering more than 20 hectares.
Officials say the exact timing and locations of burns will depend on weather and ground conditions.
For updates on provincial hazard reduction burns, residents are encouraged to monitor Alberta Wildfire information channels, while municipal inquiries can be directed to Pulse.
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