Fort McMurray Forest Area - May 06, 2026

Hazard reduction burning  

Alberta Wildfire has begun hazard reduction (controlled) burns as part of an enhanced wildfire risk reduction program.

These planned burns are carried out by trained crews in a safe, controlled manner to remove dry and dead surface fuels—such as leaves, grass, invasive weeds, and woody debris—that accumulate over the winter. Reducing this fuel helps lower the risk and intensity of wildfires in the region.

During burning operations, residents may notice smoke and visible flames. For your safety:

Please avoid active burn areas to allow crews to work safely
Watch for posted signage indicating planned burns
Keep windows closed if you live nearby to help reduce smoke exposure

While every effort is made to minimize smoke impacts, some smoke may still be present in surrounding communities.

Hazard reduction burns are currently planned for the following areas:

Fort McKay
South of Anzac (Hwy 881 roadside)
Saprae Creek – (Clearwater)
Fort Chipewyan (Regional)
Fort Smith (Regional)

Exact locations and timing will depend on weather and ground conditions.

Municipal wildfire reporting

Sharing timely information about active wildfires with Albertans is an important part of the Alberta government's approach to wildfire safety. That’s why we’ve enabled municipalities to report wildfires occurring within their borders to have them included on the Alberta Wildfire dashboard and Alberta Wildfire Status app. The blue flame icon indicates a municipal fire. Read the map legend to understand the different flame icons.

Alberta Wildfire is also introducing response type reporting to explain how a wildfire is being managed. Wildfires within Alberta Wildfire’s jurisdiction will be assigned one of three response types:

Full response: Immediate and aggressive suppression action is taken.
Modified response: Some suppression action is used to contain a wildfire within a pre-determined boundary.
Monitored response: The wildfire is observed and assessed.
Click on one of the flame icons on the wildfire map to find the response type information.

Seeking your input

 Forest area updates are an important way we share the latest information with Albertans. We’ve developed a short survey to determine if the updates are meeting your needs. Share your thoughts today

Prevent spring wildfires

Wildfire can start and spread anytime of year, always put out your campfire and never leave it unattended. 

To prevent spring wildfires, we urge residents and industry to return to their burn piles and ensure they are fully extinguished. 

• Spread out the remaining material.
• Scan the ashes by looking, smelling and carefully feeling with a bare hand for any signs of smoke or heat from the pile.
• Soak hot spots and stir until they're completely extinguished.
• Check your burn site multiple times in the coming weeks to ensure it has not reignited.

Contact info

Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]