Alberta Wildfire is issuing a Fire Advisory for both the Fort McMurray and Lac La Biche forest protection areas.
The wildfire hazard in both regions is listed as high, and under these advisories no new fire permits will be issued and all campfires must be in a safe and controlled metal, brick, or rock fire ring.
Our Regional Fire Chief, Jody Butz, is also urging residents to exercise caution in the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo area.
The RMWB says no significant precipitation is expected soon. The dry conditions, warming temperatures, and forecasted periods of high winds will continue to elevate the wildfire risk.
“Hot and dry weather conditions increase the rate of spread of wildfires,” says Regional Fire Chief, Jody Butz.
“More than 60 per cent of wildfires are started by humans. That’s why we need to be vigilant and take precautions, especially when riding an OHV or enjoying a campfire.”
Of particular concern to the RMWB are illegal campfires in parks and trail systems within Fort McMurray. There have already been several of these reported this spring, the most recent within the Birchwood Trail System.
Last fall, an illegal campfire caused a serious wildfire in the tree line behind Morgan Heights. It grew into a 10-hectare fire that caused significant concerns and smoke impacts for the area’s residents.
Currently, back yard fires within Fort McMurray are still permitted.
For the most up-to-date information on provincial fire advisories and restrictions, download the Alberta Wildfire App or visit Alberta Fire Bans.
If you see a fire in the forested area, report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473).
For more information or questions contact Pulse at 780-743-7000, toll-free at 1-800-973-9663, or online at rmwb.ca/pulse.