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Community members evacuated from Fort Chipewyan will be returning home in a phased re-entry.
The evacuation order, which was issued on May 30 in response to the Rocky River wildfire, remains in place at this time. With Alberta Wildfire announcing that 100% control of the southern perimeter of the wildfire has been achieved, the evacuation order can be lifted once all essential services in Fort Chipewyan are confirmed to be ready for everyone returning home. This is scheduled to be complete by Thursday and community leadership will determine when the evacuation order will be lifted..
Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN), Mikisew Cree First Nation (MCFN), Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation (FCMN) and the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB), along with many other agencies are working closely together on the re-entry plan.
The community extends its gratitude and thanks to everyone who supported and continues to support wildfire suppression efforts since May 30.
Phased re-entry schedule
- Phase 1: Return of essential services personnel to support re-entry
This phase is now underway and includes the return of approved essential services personnel so that the community is ready to safely welcome all community members home. If you are a part of this phase, you will be contacted with travel arrangement information, otherwise you will be a part of Phase 2 or Phase 3 re-entry.
- Phase 2: Return of general public and land users (starting Thursday, June 22)
When the evacuation order is lifted, the general community and land users can begin their safe return. This can happen by boat or air. Flights are scheduled over a few days, with multiple flights each day. Anyone returning by boat, should check-in at the Fort McKay Esso gas station on June 22. Free gas will be provided, and the river will be patrolled until 7 p.m. that day.
- Phase 3: Return of vulnerable community members
Community members who are vulnerable or have unique needs will be provided with special transportation that includes supports and special considerations for mobility needs. It’s important that all services are restored and that the community is fully safe before vulnerable community members can return.
Additional re-entry information and instructions
Representatives from the Nations will let Fort Chipewyan community members know when their flight is scheduled and provide more information on the check-in process.
A Travelling Home Guide, a Luggage Guide, and a Pet Guide with detailed instructions and more information will be provided to evacuees, posted online and available at each hotel. Support staff in the hotel lobbies will also be able to assist.
In addition, a Welcome Home package will be provided to all community members when they arrive in Fort Chipewyan.
Stay informed
Find the most recent and up-to-date information by:
- Contacting your Nation
- Asking support staff at your hotel
- Visiting rmwb.ca/FortChip
- Following the RMWB on Facebook and Twitter (@RMWoodBuffalo) and community trusted channels
- Contacting Pulse at 780-743-7000 or 1-800-973-9663
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