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Fort McMurray Forest Area - January 05, 2026
Low wildfire danger
The wildfire danger for the Fort McMurray Forest Area remains low.
Now hiring for 2026 seasonal positions
Alberta Wildfire offers a variety of seasonal job opportunities to support the management of forest and wildfire resources. Positions range from working on the fireline to supporting wildfire prevention efforts. Applications for seasonal positions are open, with more available soon. Learn more about recruitment and apply today.
Winter burning
Fire permits are no longer required after November 1 in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, but following safe burning practices is always important. Wildfires can start any time of year when conditions are dry. Wait until there is 15 cm of snow on the ground before taking on a burning project in the Forest Protection Area.
If you conduct any burning this winter, go back and ensure the fire is extinguished. A fire lit in the winter can burn under the snow all winter long and re-emerge as a wildfire in the spring. When revisiting your winter burn site, you should:
- Spread the remaining ashes and debris.
- Check the ground for any hot spots with your bare hands and feel deep below the surface for any lingering ground fire.
- Douse the area to fully extinguish the burn and stir up ashes with heavy equipment or hand tools.
- Ensure the area is cold to the touch - only then is the fire fully out.
Published on January 5, 2026 2:42 pm
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
Tree cutting permits are required to cut firewood and Christmas trees on public land. In Alberta they are free and available online.
A surprising number of wildfires start in the winter. Remember to follow safe burning practices, even after wildfire season ends.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]