Alberta Fire Advisory Logo, image via Alberta Wildfire
FORT MCMURRAY — The wildfire danger remains very high in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, with a fire advisory still in effect and a fire restriction in place in Wood Buffalo National Park.
The wildfire danger is extreme in some parts of the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Under these conditions, wildfires can start easily and spread quickly.
Despite the very high wildfire danger, there are currently no active wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Across Alberta, only two wildfires are currently active and both are classified as under control.
Alberta Wildfire says the fire advisory remains in place for the Fort McMurray Forest Area because of the increased fire hazard.
Fire permits remain available under the advisory, while safe wood campfires are permitted on public and private land and in designated campgrounds. Backyard fire pits and charcoal barbecues are also allowed.
Fireworks and exploding targets remain prohibited without written permission from a forest officer.
A more restrictive fire restriction remains in effect in Wood Buffalo National Park.
Alberta Wildfire is urging people spending time outdoors to use extra caution and avoid activities that could create sparks or potentially start a wildfire.
People having campfires are advised to use designated fire rings or fire pits where available. Outside campgrounds, fires should be placed away from dry grass, vegetation and low-hanging branches, with the area cleared down to bare mineral soil.
Campfires should never be left unattended. Alberta Wildfire recommends extinguishing fires by soaking them with water, stirring the ashes and soaking them again until everything is cool to the touch.
There have been 53 wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area since Jan. 1.
Alberta’s wildfire season continues until Oct. 15.
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