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An incredible amount of work was done to protect Fort McMurray and surrounding areas from wildfire MWF017 and support the approximately 6,600 community members who were evacuated and have now returned home.
“Our community is safe because of the hard work, dedication and commitment of many people – people that care deeply about our home, communities and neighbourhoods,” said Mayor Sandy Bowman. “My deepest appreciation goes to all those that did what they could to protect the community, while also being there for each other. To those that evacuated, welcome home. It’s great to have you back.”
The Municipality would like to extend its deepest gratitude to everyone who supported the unified response and the community for coming together to help one another. From Alberta Wildfire leading the firefighting activities, the team at the Regional Emergency Coordination Centre and First Nations and Métis partners, to the countless agencies, organizations, volunteers and community members looking out for each other, thank you for working tirelessly to protect the place we call home.
Highlights from response
Municipal responders, emergency planners and other agencies continually plan for emergencies. Being prepared, especially during wildfire season, is a priority for all. The Municipality would like to thank all community members who followed emergency instructions and who were prepared and resilient.
Firefighters, aerial support and heavy equipment led by Alberta Wildfire will continue to respond to wildfire MWF017 until it is classified as under control.
To date:
- More than 500 firefighters and personnel helped hold the wildfire, build fire guards and install structure protection to keep the community safe.
- More than 24 aircraft and helicopters were assigned to the wildfire.
- 57 pieces of heavy equipment were used to build over 40 kms of fire guards, including the completed fire guard that stretches from the Athabasca River to Highway 63.
- 4.9 km of sprinkler hoses were deployed in three separate systems.
- Approximately 243,000 litres of fire retardant was applied covering 7.6 kms of wildland areas bordering evacuated neighbourhoods.
- Four crews conducted FireSmart assessments and took measures to protect properties.
- Almost 100 RCMP and bylaw officers patrolled and provided security in evacuated areas, with dozens of RCMP Municipal and Public Service Support staff also supporting these efforts.
- More than 45 local and partner community volunteers and Emergency Social Services staff supported evacuees at the Lac La Biche and Cold Lake registration centres, with many more supporting in Edmonton.
- More than a dozen pets were safely cared for by RMWB Animal Control, including dogs, cats, rabbits, fish, a turtle, and a snake.
- At least six hotels, a campground and numerous private residences open their doors in Lac La Biche, Cold Lake, and in the Edmonton area.
Mental Health Support
While all communities are safe, returning home can feel stressful and overwhelming. There are many local and professional mental health resources available for anyone who needs support. Find a quick reference list of resources at rmwb.ca/alerts.
Wildfire Updates
Residents should continue to stay informed and be prepared during wildfire season.
Alberta Wildfire is the leading authority on managing and providing updates on wildfires. Updates on wildfire MWF017 will continue to be shared on the Alberta Wildfire app and the Fort McMurray Forested Area webpage.
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