FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — Wildfire danger has increased to very high in parts of northeastern Alberta as dry conditions continue across the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Alberta Wildfire said Wednesday that wildfire danger is very high in the Fort Fitzgerald and Fort Chipewyan areas, while the remainder of the forest area remains at a high danger rating.
Officials warned that wildfires can easily start and spread under current conditions and urged residents and visitors to use caution outdoors and avoid activities that could spark a fire.
Despite the elevated risk, there are currently no active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Since Jan. 1, crews have responded to 26 wildfires in the region.
With wildfire season underway, Alberta Wildfire is encouraging residents to take a wildfire prevention pledge aimed at reducing human-caused fires.
The pledge asks participants to commit to using fire responsibly, fully extinguishing campfires, checking off-highway vehicles for debris that could ignite, reporting smoke in forested areas to 310-FIRE, and promoting fire safety among friends and family.
The campaign includes a draw for an educational helicopter flight and features support from Fort McMurray Fire Chief Jody Butz and Fort McMurray Forest Area Manager Paul St. John.
Officials are also reminding people recreating on public land to follow any fire bans, keep campfires small and attended, and ensure they are fully extinguished before leaving.
Any burning within Alberta’s Forest Protection Area requires a fire permit between March 1 and Oct. 31, except for campfires. Fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited in the Forest Protection Area without written consent from a forest officer.
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