Fire advisory issued for Fort McMurray Forest Area amid high wildfire danger

Alberta Fire Advisory Logo, image via Alberta Wildfire

FORT McMURRAY — A fire advisory is now in effect across the Fort McMurray Forest Area as warm temperatures, dry vegetation and increasing wildfire risk continue across northeastern Alberta.

Alberta Wildfire says the advisory means existing fire permits remain valid, but new permits will only be issued on a case-by-case basis for essential burning activities. Safe campfires are still allowed, though officials are warning residents and outdoor users to use extreme caution.

The province says any burning without a valid fire permit remains prohibited, except for campfires.

Wildfire officials say the wildfire danger is currently rated high across most of the Fort McMurray Forest Area, with moderate conditions in the northern portion of the region.

Officials warn hot, dry conditions can allow wildfires to ignite easily and spread rapidly.

Residents using off-highway vehicles or heavy equipment are also being reminded to carry firefighting tools, including shovels, fire extinguishers and water pails.

Alberta Wildfire says campfires should never be left unattended and must be fully extinguished using the “soak, stir and soak again” method.

There is currently one active wildfire burning within the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Officials say the fire is classified as under control and poses no threat to nearby communities.

Since the start of the year, four wildfires have been reported within the forest area.

The province says fireworks and exploding targets remain prohibited within Alberta’s Forest Protection Area unless written authorization is provided by a forest officer.

Officials are also encouraging residents recreating outdoors to follow all fire bans and restrictions and to monitor conditions through Alberta’s wildfire status dashboard and mobile app.

Alberta Wildfire says municipalities can now report local wildfires directly through the provincial wildfire dashboard system, allowing the public to view both provincial and municipal wildfire activity in one location.