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(Fort McMurray, AB – May 2, 2023) – A Fire Restriction is now in effect for most of the Wood Buffalo region, including Fort McMurray.
The dry conditions, warming temperatures and forecasted periods of high winds continue to elevate the wildfire risk, without significant rain in the forecast.
Under this fire restriction, all existing fire permits are suspended, wood campfires in the backcountry on public land are not allowed and fireworks are prohibited. Safe wood campfires within fire rings on private land such as approved backyard firepits, local parks and provincial campgrounds are still allowed.
The fire restriction includes First Nations and applies to fires on public lands within
- Fort McMurray (all neighborhoods)
- Fort McKay
- Draper
- Saprae Creek
- Gregoire Lake Estates
- Anzac
- Janvier
- Conklin
At this time, this fire restriction does not include areas north of Lake Athabasca, including Fort Chipewyan which remains under a Fire Advisory.
OHV users urged to ride safely, avoid burning in backcountry
During this time of heightened concern, all recreational users in wooded and grassy areas are urged to use caution. OHV users should be aware of debris collecting on hot exhaust which could result in a fire and are reminded not to have campfires when enjoying the backcountry, even if these fires are within a firepit.
For more details on fire restrictions and bans, visit albertafirebans.ca To report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473).
For more information on wildfires, fire restrictions and fire bans visit wildfire.alberta.ca.
Stay prepared
All community members are reminded to be aware and stay prepared during wildfire season by:
- Signing up for Alberta Emergency Alerts by downloading the app
- Following the RMWB Facebook and Twitter accounts
- Staying up to date on the status of wildfires
- Having a 72-hour emergency kit ready
- Reviewing your community emergency management plan (CEMP) and having a household emergency plan
- Keeping all combustibles at least 1.5 metres away from your home and propane tanks and woodpiles at least 10 metres away
- Keeping your roof and gutters free of debris
- Moving all unused patio furniture to a shed or safe storage facility
- Taking other proactive steps to prepare households and properties. View more FireSmart tips at home
For more information or questions contact Pulse at 780-743-7000, toll-free at 1-800-973-9663 or online at rmwb.ca/pulse.
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