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High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is high in Fort Smith and low in the remainder of the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Cooler temperatures and recent rain have helped reduce wildfire risk. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could spark a wildfire.
Wildfire situation
Firefighters and other resources continue to assist with a mutual aid wildfire located 60 km southeast of Fort Smith. MNZ002 is estimated at 383 hectares (ha) in size and is currently classified as out of control.
There are currently 2 active wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Both wildfires are classified as under control and do not pose a threat to communities.
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 62 wildfires in the forest area, burning approximately 79,404 ha.
To view active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area on a map, visit the wildfire status dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Fire advisory
As of 2:00 p.m. on October 3, the fire restriction for the Fort McMurray Forest Area has been lifted. A fire advisory is now in effect.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are valid, but extension requests may not be granted.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, for essential burning only.
- Safe campfires are allowed.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to see the advisory area on a map.
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.
Off-highway vehicle safety
An off-highway vehicle (OHV) can cause a wildfire. You can reduce the risk by following these simple steps:
- Before you ride, clean out hot spots and remove debris from your machine.
- After riding through muskeg or tall grass, stop and remove any build-up from your machine.
- Carry firefighting equipment such as a small shovel, collapsible pail or fire extinguisher.
- Wash your OHV and keep it clean. Do not wash in streams and creeks.
- Make sure your muffler and spark arrestor are working properly.
- Stop frequently. Take the time to knock debris from your machine’s hot spots. If the debris is smouldering, soak it, stir it, and soak it again to make sure it is extinguished.
For more information, see Off-highway vehicle safety.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]
Published on October 3, 2025 3:18 pm