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Extreme wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is now extreme in the Fort McMurray Forest Area due to hot, dry, and windy conditions.
It is important be extremely cautious during these conditions as a wildfire can ignite very easily and spread rapidly. Respect the fire restriction and avoid all risky outdoor activities that have the potential to spark a fire, such as setting off fireworks.
Since January 1, 2025 there have been 11 wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area burning less than 2 hectares (ha). Currently, there are no active wildfires in the forest area.
Visit the wildfire status dashboard for more information.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction is in effect for south of Lake Athabasca within the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands.
Prohibited
- Outdoor wood fires on public lands including backcountry and random camping areas
- Any burning, other than a campfire on private land
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Safe wood campfires on private land including provincial campgrounds with a designated fire ring
- Backyard firepits
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve.
See the fire restriction fact sheet for more information.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans to see the boundaries of the fire restriction.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is in effect for north of Lake Athabasca within 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.
See Alberta Fire Bans to see the boundaries of the fire advisory.
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 May 25, 2025 11:19 am