RMWB says fire near Timberlea was human caused
The Municipality said a fire near Morgan Heights Park in Timberlea is being held and steadily shrinking.
According to Regional Emergency Services (RES), crews responded to the blaze in the tree line behind McKinlay Crescent as early as 3 p.m. on Oct. 18, 2022.
As many as seven sprinkler systems were used in controlling the fire and protect residential areas.
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There is no immediate risk to the public and no evacuation order is in place.
Oct. 19, 9:45 a.m.) Fire activity was quiet during the evening, with the size shrinking. Crews remain on scene and there is no immediate threat to nearby homes. Sprinkler systems are being used to protect residential areas. The next update will be provided early afternoon. #rmwb
— rmwoodbuffalo (@RMWoodBuffalo) October 19, 2022
In its nightly update on Oct. 19, the Municipality said an investigation determined the fire was human caused.
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“A bulldozer created a larger firebreak and will continue to be used tomorrow to strengthen the perimeter and keep the fire away from residential areas. Tomorrow, helicopter bucket operations and ground fire suppression will continue. It is not safe to perform these operations at night. Its expected that fire activity will be quiet overnight, but smoke will continue to be present.”
Additional supports and resources remain on stand by.
“Please continue to keep a safe distance, give crews room to work and stay out of the area if you do not live in the neighbourhood.”
Alberta Forestry reported the wildfire risk as high in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Community members may also contact the Pulse line for questions and further updates.
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The Municipality is updating progress on the fire size on their social media accounts.