Wildfire update

Fort McMurray Forest Area - September 01, 2026

Very High wildfire danger

The wildfire danger is very high in Fort McMurray and Fort Chipewyan and is now high in Fort Fitzgerald. Wildfires can start easily and spread quickly under these conditions. Please use extra caution when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could create sparks or potentially start a wildfire.

Fire advisory

A fire advisory is now in place for the Fort McMurray Forest Area due to increased fire hazard, limited rainfall in the forecast and grasses beginning to cure.

ActivityRestriction level
Fire permitsAllowed
Safe wood campfires on public landsAllowed
Safe wood campfires in a designated campgroundAllowed
Safe wood campfires on private landAllowed
Safe wood campfire in backyard fire pitsAllowed
Barbeque – Charcoal briquetteAllowed
FireworksAlways prohibited without written permission of a Forest Officer
Exploding targetsAlways prohibited without written permission of a Forest Officer
Propane/natural gas powered appliancesAllowed
Indoor wood fireAllowed
Open flame oil devicesAllowed

Wildfire situation

There are currently no active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. 

Since January 1, there have been 53 wildfires in the forest area. To view active wildfires, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.

Campfire safety 

Abandoned campfires cause many wildfires every year in Alberta. These human-caused wildfires are completely preventable. Never leave a campfire unattended and always fully extinguish it when you are done. Soak it, stir it and soak it again, until the coals are cool to the touch.

Metal fire ring and grill at a campsite with a small smouldering ember in the ash. Two yellow collapsible water buckets sit nearby on bare ground, surrounded by green vegetation.

Off-highway vehicles (OHV's)

Help prevent wildfires by using vehicles and off-highway vehicles safely in dry conditions:

  • Stop frequently to remove grass, mud and other debris from hot spots on your vehicle. 
  • Carry firefighting tools, including a shovel, pail and fire extinguisher. 
  • Never park in tall grass. Heat from a vehicle’s exhaust system can ignite dry vegetation. Park on bare ground or gravel whenever possible.

For more information, see off-highway vehicle safety.

 

Contact info

Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]

Published on September 1, 2026 2:04 pm