The wildfire danger is currently very high in Fort McMurray and high in Fort Chipewyan and Fort Fitzgerald. Continued late-summer temperatures and dry vegetation can increase the potential for wildfires to start and spread quickly. If you’re heading outdoors do your part to prevent wildfires. Make sure campfires are completely extinguished, check your OHV for debris and avoid activities that could cause a spark.
Wildfire Pledge
Small actions can make a big difference when it comes to preventing wildfires. Each year, the Fort McMurray Forest Area encourages residents to take the Wildfire Pledge and commit to helping prevent human-caused wildfires. As part of this year’s campaign, participants had the chance to win an educational helicopter flight. Congratulations to this year’s Wildfire Pledge winner, Trevor Sacrey! On September 19, Trevor and his guests enjoyed a scenic and educational flight over the Fort McMurray area, taking in the landscape from above and learning more about wildfire prevention and the work Alberta Wildfire does to protect our forests and communities. Thank you to everyone who took the pledge this year.
Wildfire situation
There are currently no active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Since January 1, there have been 54 wildfires in the forest area. To view active wildfires, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Hunting season is underway — make campfire safety part of your trip.
Whether you’re spending the day in the woods or staying overnight at camp, remember that a small campfire can still start a wildfire if it isn’t properly managed and extinguished.
Before leaving your site or going to bed, make sure your campfire is completely extinguished:
- Soak the fire with water.
- Stir the ashes and coals.
- Soak it again until everything is cool to the touch.
If you can still feel heat, your fire isn’t out.
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 22, 2026 2:21 pm