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Very High wildfire danger
Due to increasing temperatures expected over the coming days, and the potential for lightning, the wildfire danger level is very high in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Conditions are extremely dry and extreme caution needs to be taken when recreating in the forest.
Since January 1, 2025 there has been 6 wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area burning a total of 0.66 hectares (ha). There are currently 2 active wildfires in the forest area, which are under control.
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.
Sign the pledge here by filling in the form at the bottom. One entry per person.
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. Since there is a fire advisory in effect, permits are only issued on a case-by-case basis, refer below for more information.
Stay informed of fire restrictions and bans by checking Alberta Fire Bans.
Off-highway vehicles (OHVs)
Off-highway vehicles can cause wildfires. Remember to carry firefighting equipment such as a small shovel, collapsible pail or fire extinguisher.
Safe campfires
When you're done with your campfire, always remember to soak it, stir it, and soak it again.
Fire advisory
Due to the anticipated hot, dry, windy weather conditions, a fire advisory is in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are valid but extension requests may not be granted. Permit holders must follow the safe burning conditions outlined on the fire permit.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, for essential burning only.
Permitted:
- Safe wood campfires
- Backyard fire pits
- Portable propane fire pits
- Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
- Catalytic or infrared style heaters
Prohibited:
- Fireworks – without the written permission of a Forest Officer
- Exploding Targets - without the written permission of a Forest Officer
The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
Contact info
Emily Smith
780-799-9253
[email protected]
Published on May 7, 2025 11:05 am