Alerts
MWF-017 Wildfire Update - May 16, 2 p.m.
- A wildfire update from Alberta Wildfire will be provided at our evening update.
New Information
- This morning, ATCO crews patrolled the area to assess their infrastructure. Power remains energized in communities under the Evacuation Order. For updated information on power outages refer to https://poweroutage.atco.com/map or download the ATCO app “My ATCO Electricity” or call 1-800-668-2248.
- RMWB Transit is no longer bringing evacuees to the reception centres. If transportation is required, you must make your own arrangements.
- If you missed the live update from Mayor Sandy Bowman, Chief Jody Butz and Alberta Wildfire Information Officer Josee St. Onge, you can watch the recording at https://www.youtube.com/live/ztvhY73zKF8?feature=shared
- As of 2 p.m., 2,257 residents have registered at reception centres in Lac La Biche, Cold Lake and Edmonton. In addition to people, staff at these centres have also registered 306 pets, including two guinea pigs, a snake and a gecko.
- Seven pets are currently in care through Bylaw Services (pictured).
LWF-090 Wildfire update - June 4, 4:30 p.m.
Lac La Biche County issued an evacuation order for southern Winefred Lake and Grist Lake this afternoon (June 4).
Conklin is not under an evacuation order at this time. There is no immediate danger for the community from Caribou Lake Wildfire LWF-090.
Alberta Wildfire has made good progress on suppression and containment efforts on the northern head and flanks of this wildfire. RMWB Regional Emergency Services has also worked with Alberta Wildfire to complete the installation of structure protection sprinkler systems in Conklin.
An evacuation alert remains in effect for Conklin. There is no immediate danger for the community, but people in Conklin should be prepared to leave on short notice.
Wildfire response
Alberta Wildfire is leading the response and has crews, heavy equipment and helicopters working on the northwest side of the fire. Subscribe to receive Lac La Biche Forest Area Updates for the most recent updates on the fire.
Smoke will continue to be present in the community
Wildfire smoke can travel long distances and conditions can change quickly. A Special Air Quality Statement is in effect for Conklin. Anyone experiencing symptoms from the smoke should call Health Link at 811. To check where the smoke is coming from, visit firesmoke.ca
Supports During an Evacuation
Residents are encouraged to be prepared and resilient during emergencies. Plan ahead. Check your insurance policy; have an emergency plan and an emergency kit with essential items to sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours.
Registering during an evacuation/incident
In-person registration: If you need support such as food, lodging, and other basic needs, you must report in-person to a Registration Centre. Residents who are unable to evacuate on their own, and who do not have a full-time caregiver, should consider signing up for the Vulnerable Persons Registry.
Self-registration: If you do not require Municipally provided ESS services, you can self-register through MAERS My Alberta Emergency Registration System. This allows you to remain eligible for services until the incident ends.
Registration Centres
During an emergency, it is crucial to follow trusted information sources such as RMWB.ca and Alberta Wildfire. Follow official municipal social media channels @rmwoodbuffalo . For trusted and recent wildfire information, download the Alberta Wildfire App or visit www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.
If an evacuation order is issued, Emergency Social Services (ESS) will activate a Registration Centre to assist people who need essential services like food, lodging, and basic needs. Instructions for evacuees will be published on the municipal website and municipal social media channels @RMWoodBuffalo .
Wildfire/Safety Resources
Safety Checklist
- Arrange with neighbours to advise one another of an emergency notification
- Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit
- Make an emergency plan for your household
- If evacuating due to wildfire, or if smoke is present, close all windows
- Keep all combustibles at least 1.5 metres away from your home and propane tanks and woodpiles at least 10 metres away
- Move all unused patio furniture to a shed or safe storage facility
- Take other proactive steps to prepare households and properties. View more FireSmart tips at home
Information Resources
- For the most up-to-date information on provincial fire advisories and restrictions, download the Alberta Wildfire App or visit albertafirebans.ca.
- To report a fire in the forested area, call 310-FIRE (3473).
- Stay informed by following official and trusted channels such as RMWB.ca and Municipal X.com or Facebook.
- Download the Alberta Emergency Alerts App
- Follow local media sources. For wildfire updates visit: Alberta Wildfire Updates
- For questions or further information, please call Pulse at 780-743-7000 or 1-800-973-9663.
Mental Health Support Services
People may experience a wide range of emotions and reactions to incidents in the region. There are many local and professional mental health resources available for anyone who needs support. A quick reference list is available below. There are other supports not included in this list as well.
Health Link (free nurse advice and general health information for Albertans: 8-1-1 (24/7)
Some Other Solutions Crisis Line: 780-743-4357
Mental Health Helpline: Offers help for mental health concerns for Albertans: 1-877-303-2642 (24/7)
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 9-8-8 (24/7)
Air Quality
During periods of increased smoke activity, stay indoors as much as possible and keep windows and doors closed.
For up-to-date information on air quality and smoke in the region, visit wbea.org or firesmoke.ca.