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The wildfire danger is very high in Fort Smith and high in the remainder of the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Wildfires can start and spread easily in hot and dry conditions. Be cautious if you are spending time outdoors.
Wildfire situation
Smoke
Wildfires burning in the Northwest Territories are creating smoky conditions in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Always use caution when conditions are smoky and limit your time outside if possible.
- Visit FireSmoke Canada to see where the smoke is coming from.
- Smoky conditions can affect your health. Go to wildfire smoke and your health for more information.
- Call Health Link at 811 if you are having respiratory problems due to smoke.
Wildfire statistics
There are currently 3 active wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, 1 is classified as being held and 2 are classified as under control. None of the wildfires pose a threat to communities.
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 58 wildfires in the forest area, burning approximately 79,389 hectares (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
A fire advisory is in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are valid.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, for essential burning only.
- Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire is prohibited.
- Safe campfires are permitted in designated campgrounds, public, and private lands.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for details and to view a map of the fire advisory area.
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 September 2, 2025 2:51 pm