Due to recent rainfall and cooler temperatures, the wildfire danger is now high in Fort McMurray and low in Fort Fitzgerald and Fort Chipewyan. Wildfires can still start in cool, damp conditions Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could spark a wildfire.
Wildfire Situation
There are currently 3 active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Of these, 2 are under control and 1 are being held.
Since January 1, there have been 41 wildfires in the forest area. To view active wildfires, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Firefighters supported by helicopters, continue suppression efforts on these fires. At this time, there is no risk to communities or infrastructure.
- MWF039 is located approximately 6 km west of Barrow Lake, 1.9 hectares in size and currently classified as under control.
- MWF040 is located approximately 9 km west of Barrow Lake, 3.5 hectares in size and is currently classified as under control.
- MWF041 is located approximately 4 km west of La Butte Creek, 0.5 hectares in size and is currently classified as being held.
Fire restriction
The fire restriction has been lifted in Fort McMurray but remains in effect for Fort Chipewyan and Fort Fitzgerald.
A fire restriction prohibits the use of wood campfires on public land but does allow wood campfires inside provincial campgrounds and private property. Fire permits may be restricted, suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
| Activity | Restriction level |
|---|---|
| Fire permits | Restricted or suspended |
| Safe wood campfires on public lands | Not allowed |
| Safe wood campfires in a designated campground | Allowed |
| Safe wood campfires on private land | Allowed |
| Safe wood campfire in backyard fire pits | Allowed |
| Charcoal/ wood burning appliances without an on/off switch or valve (barbecues, smokers, stoves) | Allowed |
| Fireworks | Always prohibited without written permission of a Forest Officer |
| Exploding targets | Always prohibited without written permission of a Forest Officer |
| Propane/natural gas/ electric powered appliances with an on/off switch or valve (barbecues, smokers, stoves) | Allowed |
| Indoor wood fire | Allowed |
| Open flame oil devices | Allowed |
Access more information on the Alberta Fire Bans website.
Campfire safety
Abandoned campfires cause many wildfires every year in Alberta. These human-caused wildfires are completely preventable. Never leave a campfire unattended and always fully extinguish it when you are done. Soak it, stir it and soak it again, until the coals are cool to the touch.
Take the Wildfire Pledge today for a chance to win an educational helicopter flight
Wildfire season is here, and we all have a role to play. Alberta Wildfire is calling on residents in the Fort McMurray Forest Area to take the wildfire pledge and help protect our forests, communities, and way of life. With many wildfires caused by human activity, small actions can make a big difference.
Join Fire Chief Jody Butz and Forest Area Manager Paul St. John – take the pledge and be part of the solution (and be entered for an educational helicopter flight.)
Sign the pledge:
- I will always use fire responsibly and safely in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
- I will fully extinguish my campfire by soaking it, stirring it and soaking it again.
- I will stop and check my off-highway vehicle regularly for built-up debris while riding off-road.
- I will report any smoke I see in the forested areas to 310-FIRE.
- I will be an ambassador for fire safety when enjoying Alberta’s forested areas with friends and family.
Everyone plays a role in reducing the risk of wildfires.
Please sign the pledge here by filling in the form at the bottom. One entry per person.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]
Published on July 6, 2026 4:03 pm