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Extreme wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is extreme in Fort Smith and Fort Chipewyan and very high in Fort McMurray. With hot and dry conditions and no significant rain in the forecast, wildfires can easily ignite and spread quickly. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could spark a wildfire.
Wildfire situation
Wildfire statistics
There are currently 2 active wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, both are classified as under control.
Firefighters are also assisting with a mutual aid fire 60km southeast of Fort Smith. MNZ002 is estimated as 30 hectares(ha) in size and classified as out of control. All active wildfires do not pose a threat to communities.
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 61 wildfires in the forest area, burning approximately 79,404 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.
Smoke
Wildfires burning across Canada 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.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction is in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area due to hot and dry conditions.
Prohibited:
- Outdoor wood fires on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas
- Any burning on private land, other than a campfire
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Safe wood campfires on private land, in a designated fire ring, including provincial campgrounds
- Backyard firepits
- Propane fire pits and natural gas barbeques
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes on private land and provincial campgrounds
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to see the restriction area on a map.
Hunting season
Hunting season is now underway. Remember, under a fire restriction, campfires are not allowed in random backcountry camping areas. If you are in an area permitted to have a campfire (such as on private land), ensure you are doing so safely:
- Build campfires in safe areas, clear of grass, twigs and leaves.
- Keep fires small and never leave them unattended.
- Extinguish your campfire before going to bed or leaving the site. Soak it, stir it and soak it again.
- A fire is out only when no heat remains in the ashes.
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 24, 2025 4:30 pm