A fire advisory is now in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Despite an overall fire danger rating of Low for the Forest Area, Alberta Wildfire added the area surrounding Fort Chipewyan remains Very High.
On Sept. 17, 2022, the agency updated a forecasted map of smoke potential near the hamlet.
“New projections predict that Fort Chipewyan will experience smoke in the area beginning Saturday evening at approximately 7:00 p.m. until the following morning. This smoke is coming from wildfires MWF080 and MWF022, with the closest burn area approximately 66 kilometers from Fort Chipewyan. These wildfires are considered being held and do not pose any threat to the Fort Chipewyan community.”
Smoke could still impact individuals at greater risk, including children, seniors, and people with respiratory diseases, such as asthma.
No new fire permits will be issued under the Fire Advisory, and burning without one is prohibited.
Existing permits remain valid, but Alberta Wildfire would consider renewals on a case-by-case basis.
The following are allowed under the advisory:
- Safe wood campfires
- Backyard fire pits
- Portable propane fire pits
- Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
- Catalytic or infrared-style heaters
Alberta Fire Bans has an exact map online covering where the fire advisory is in effect.
As of Sept. 19, there are 32 active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area: 31 are being held, and one is under control.
If you see a fire, flame, or smoke in the forest, residents should call 310-FIRE.
