Fort McMurray Forest Area - July 16, 2026
The wildfire danger is very high in Fort Fitzgerald, high in Fort Chipewyan and low in Fort McMurray. Use caution when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could spark a wildfire. Wildfires can start easily and spread quickly under these conditions.
Wildfire Situation
There is currently one active wildfire in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. The wildfire is classified as under control.
Firefighters supported by helicopters, continue suppression efforts on this fire. At this time, there is no risk to communities or infrastructure.
MWF038 is located 52km west of Fort McMurray, 0.16 hectares in size and currently classified as under control.
Since January 1, there have been 42 wildfires in the forest area. To view active wildfires, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Take the Wildfire Pledge today for a chance to win an educational helicopter flight
Wildfire season is here, and we all have a role to play. Alberta Wildfire is calling on residents in the Fort McMurray Forest Area to take the wildfire pledge and help protect our forests, communities, and way of life. With many wildfires caused by human activity, small actions can make a big difference.
Join Fire Chief Jody Butz and Forest Area Manager Paul St. John – take the pledge and be part of the solution (and be entered for an educational helicopter flight.)
Sign the pledge:
- I will always use fire responsibly and safely in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
- I will fully extinguish my campfire by soaking it, stirring it and soaking it again.
- I will stop and check my off-highway vehicle regularly for built-up debris while riding off-road.
- I will report any smoke I see in the forested areas to 310-FIRE.
- I will be an ambassador for fire safety when enjoying Alberta’s forested areas with friends and family.
Everyone plays a role in reducing the risk of wildfires.
Please sign the pledge here by filling in the form at the bottom. One entry per person.
Responsible recreation
If you are heading outdoors, remember to do your part to prevent wildfires. Recreating responsibly on Alberta's public land helps keep our forests safe.
Remember to:
- Adhere to Alberta Fire Bans.
- When permitted, only create campfires on hard surfaces and/or in campfire rings.
- Keep campfires small, always ensure they are full extinguished and never leave them unattended.
- Any burning in the Forest Protection Area (FPA) requires a fire permit from March 1 to October 31, with the exception of a campfire. Request a fire permit online.
- Fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited in the Forest Protection Area without written consent from a forest officer.
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.
Published on July 16, 2026 2:21 pm
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
Find active fire advisories, restrictions, bans, forest closures, off-highway vehicle restrictions and what activities are allowed.
How to choose your campfire site, prepare your campfire and properly extinguish it when you are done.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]