Controlled burning planned to reduce wildfire risk to Timberlea neighbourhoods

Update: October 18

This planned controlled burning has been cancelled due to wet weather conditions. This area will be a part of the controlled burning campaign for spring 2024.

(Fort McMurray, AB – October 16, 2023) – A controlled burn is planned this week in areas of Morgan Heights and Harpe Heights to reduce the wildfire risk to those Timberlea neighbourhoods.

Led by trained staff from Regional Emergency Services and Alberta Wildfire, controlled burns only happen when conditions are safe to do so. Crews are planning to conduct the burns on Thursday, Oct. 19 if weather conditions permit.

Smoke and controlled fire may be visible during this, but it is not a cause for concern.

Normally conducted in spring, controlled burning was halted this year due to the provincial fire ban in early May. Taking advantage of warmer than normal weather conditions this month, trained teams hope to address this area now.

Stay away from burning activity; keep windows closed

People should avoid areas during burning activity to allow crews to safely do their work. Trail access will also be temporarily interrupted.

Signs will be placed in the area to remind residents of planned burns. While every effort will be made to minimize smoke impacts, people living nearby should keep their windows closed.

Anyone with questions or concerns should contact Pulse online or call 780-743-7000.

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