The wildfire danger is very high in Fort McMurray and now moderate in Fort Chipewyan and 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.
Labour Day long weekend
As Albertans head outdoors this long weekend, Alberta Forestry reminds everyone to enjoy the weekend responsibly and help prevent wildfires.
Campfires are the leading cause of human-caused wildfires, but these fires can be avoided with a few simple steps. Before leaving your campsite, make sure your campfire is fully extinguished by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again until everything is cool to the touch.
We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable weekend!
Celebrating Our JFR Crew
We had such a great season with our local Junior Forest Ranger (JFR) crew
The JFR Program runs for seven weeks every summer, giving youth an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn about forestry, wildfire operations, teamwork and so much more. Recruitment for the 2027 season will begin in early 2027.
Our all-girl JFR crew accomplished so much throughout the summer. Last month, the crew participated in Bull of the Woods, where they were awarded the Safety Award for the season. Additionally, the senior member was selected as this year’s JFR bursary recipient. Congratulations, Christina!
We can’t say enough good things about the JFR Program and the incredible group we were lucky enough to have in our area this summer. Their hard work, dedication, teamwork and enthusiasm made them a pleasure to work with.
Thank you to our JFR crew for an amazing season, and we wish each of you all the best in your future adventures!
Fire advisory
A fire advisory remains in place for the Fort McMurray Forest Area due to increased fire hazard.
| Activity | Restriction level |
|---|---|
| Fire permits | Allowed |
| Safe wood campfires on public lands | Allowed |
| Safe wood campfires in a designated campground | Allowed |
| Safe wood campfires on private land | Allowed |
| Safe wood campfire in backyard fire pits | Allowed |
| Barbeque – Charcoal briquette | Allowed |
| Fireworks | Always prohibited without written permission of a Forest Officer |
| Exploding targets | Always prohibited without written permission of a Forest Officer |
| Propane/natural gas powered appliances | Allowed |
| Indoor wood fire | Allowed |
| Open flame oil devices | Allowed |
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.
Choose a safe campfire site
In campgrounds or recreational areas, use the designated stoves, fire rings or fire pits. Fire pits are designed to keep fires from spreading and are the best choice for a safe campfire. When outside of a campground, choose a site that is clear of dry grass and vegetation, away from low hanging branches. Clear the site down to bare mineral soil, keep it sheltered from the wind and always have water nearby in case your campfire escapes.
When you're done, always soak it, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch. Never leave your campfire unattended.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]
Published on September 4, 2026 10:16 am