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Extreme wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is extreme in the Fort Smith area and very high in the remainder of the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
We are expecting hot and dry weather, which will increase the wildfire risk in the coming days. Firefighters urge everyone to be cautious when spending time outdoors. Avoid activities that could spark a fire, and always ensure that campfires are fully extinguished.
Wildfire situation
There are currently 4 active wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. All active fires are classified as under control and being monitored for smoke and hot spots as part of suppression efforts. There is no risk to communities from these fires.
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 49 wildfires in the forest area, burning approximately 79,201 hectares (ha).
To view active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest area on map, visit the wildfire status dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are valid.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, for essential burning only.
- Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire is prohibited.
- Safe campfires are permitted in designated campgrounds, public, and private lands.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for details and to view a map of the fire advisory area.
Campfire safety
If you are planning on having a campfire in campgrounds or recreational areas, use the designated stoves, fire rings or fire pits. These are designed to keep fires from spreading and are the best choice for a safe campfire.
When outside of a campground, use sites that are clear of dry grass, leaves, branches, and flammable vegetation. If a site has already been used for a campfire, use the same site. Build your campfire on level ground that is sheltered from wind. If you cannot build your fire near a water source, have a large container of water nearby to keep your campfire under control.
Never leave your campfire unattended. Embers from your campfire can land in nearby vegetation and cause a wildfire. To fully extinguish your campfire when you are done, always soak it, stir it and soak it again. The ashes should be cool to the touch. Do not bury your fire as the embers may continue to smoulder and can re-emerge as a wildfire.
See Campfire Safety for more information.
Wildfire pledge
Join Mayor Sandy Bowman and Director of Emergency Management Cindy Miller in signing the wildfire pledge today!
Take the pledge, reduce wildfires and be entered to win 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
Stephen Fudge
587-919-5528
[email protected]
Published on July 30, 2025 4:00 pm