The fire danger in the Fort McMurray Forest Area is now high due to warmer temperatures. Wildfires can easily start and spread in these conditions. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could potentially spark a wildfire.
Wildfire situation
There are currently no active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Since January 1, there have been 45 wildfires in the forest area. To view active wildfires, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Join Alberta Forestry at a nearby event
Join Alberta Forestry to learn about wildfire prevention, operations and FireSmart recommendations. Stay tuned for more upcoming events.
- August 23: Acden Show and Shine Car Show
- September 10: Fort McKay Trade Show
- September 12: Regional Emergency Services Pancake Breakfast
Don’t give embers a chance. Be FireSmart
Did you know that most homes that are damaged or destroyed by wildland fire are not impacted by the advancing wall of flame but by ignition from flying sparks and embers? This fire season, take simple steps that reduce the risk to your home.
- A mowed lawn is a fire-resistant lawn. Grasses shorter than 10 centimetres are less likely to burn intensely and may slow the spread of fire.
- Thinning and pruning trees can slow down wildfire spread.
- Remove low-hanging branches up to two metres from the ground.
- Avoid using bark or pine needle mulch within 10 metres of your home, as they are highly combustible. Gravel mulch and decorative crushed rock mulch significantly reduce the spread of wildland fire.
To learn more, take the free one-hour FireSmart 101 course online.
Choose a safe campfire site
In campgrounds or recreational areas, use the designated stoves, fire rings or fire pits. Fire pits are designed to keep fires from spreading and are the best choice for a safe campfire. When outside of a campground, choose a site that is clear of dry grass and vegetation, away from low hanging branches. Clear the site down to bare mineral soil, keep it sheltered from the wind and always have water nearby in case your campfire escapes.
When you're done, always soak it, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch. Never leave your campfire unattended.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]
Published on August 20, 2026 11:35 am