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High wildfire danger
The wildfire risk continues to climb and every precaution needs to be taken to reduce the chance of wildfires. The wildfire danger level is high in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
High temperatures are expected to continue for the coming days and may include strong winds. It's of the utmost importance to be very careful when having a campfire or doing any burning activities. In strong winds these can get out of control very quickly. Remember that fire permits are required for any burning other than a campfire.
There have been three wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area since January 1, 2025. If you see smoke or flame in the forest please call 310-FIRE (3473) to report it.
Hazard reduction burns
Hazard reduction burns (HRBs) were not conducted today as the wind was very strong and the temperature was high, which increases the chance of extreme fire behaviour. Firefighters monitor the weather constantly to assess if controlled burns can be done safely. There may be more oppourtunities to complete controlled burns in the near future.
Alberta Wildfire staff have completed some portions of the burn area near Saprae Creek over the past couple of weeks. They are working towards completing a 25-hectare strip running north to the Clearwater River, east of Saprae Creek.
HRBs are completed as an effort to reduce wildfire risk by removing fuels from the landscape. These burns are only completed by experienced firefighters, with the support of helicopters.
If weather conditions allow, plans are prepared for several areas throughout the region:
Fort McMurray (west):
- North Tower Road: A 25-hectare strip north of Tower Road running north towards Parsons area, west of Timberlea.
- South Tower Road: A 33-hectare strip south of Tower Road running south towards the Athabasca River, west of Thickwood Heights.
- Northwest Parsons Creek: A 7-hectare strip running northeast, connecting the northern end of the North Tower Road burn to natural fire breaks near North Parsons Gateway.
Abasand:
- A 15-hectare strip running south from the Athabasca River towards the Horse River, west of Abasand.
Gregoire Lake Regional:
- Amoco Meadow: A 6.98-hectare section, south of Amoco Road and east of Twp Road 854A.
- Amoco Field: A 1.09 hectare section, west of Amoco Road.
These controlled burns will only be conducted if ideal conditions are present. If weather conditions become too hazardous, they will not be completed. See the hazard reduction burn pamphlet for more information.
Fire permits
Fire permits are free and can be requested online, for any burning other than a campfire. You may also request your fire permit by calling the Fort McMurray permit line at 780-743-7125.
Stay informed of fire restrictions and bans by checking Alberta Fire Bans.
Safe campfires
When you're done with your campfire, always remember to soak it, stir it, and soak it again. Find more information on safe campfires.
Contact info
Emily Smith
780-799-9253
[email protected]
Published on April 25, 2025 2:31 pm