The Manitoba Wildfire Service (MWS) advises that wildfire danger levels are low to moderate throughout the province. There are currently 32 fires burning in Manitoba with seven new fire starts in the past 24 hours.
Fire WE050 (Saskatchewan-Manitoba border)
Estimated 2,300 hectares (ha) in size, MWS is working with crews from Saskatchewan to enhance fire protection in the area, located 37 kilometres north of Flin Flon. Wind conditions over the next 24 to 48 hours may produce increased smoke activity in Flin Flon. Local fire crews are focusing on protecting several remote properties in the area.
Fire WE026 (Mathias Colomb Cree Nation)
Less than one kilometre east of Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (MCCN), the fire is estimated to be 52,760 ha. Due to the vicinity of the wildfire, the community had been evacuated. Favourable weather conditions and progress on firefighting efforts have decreased the risk to the community and critical infrastructure, and some community members are beginning to return home.
Fire WE019 (Burntwood Lake)
The fire is approximately 24,000 ha in area but is not an immediate threat to any community or properties.
The Manitoba Wildfire Service reminds Manitobans to be ‘FireSmart’. Walk around houses and remove any large fuel sources within 10 metres that could burn, such as woodpiles, spare lumber, vehicles and boats. In areas where ATV use is allowed, riders play a role in protecting against wildfires. Anyone using an ATV is asked to stay on developed trails, ensure the ATV has a working spark arrestor, check areas around the engine and exhaust frequently, and carefully remove and extinguish any debris from these areas. Operators are also reminded to be prepared by carrying a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel.
Many municipalities have implemented burning restrictions. Check with local municipal offices for more information or view the interactive current municipal burning restrictions at manitoba.ca. The province will not issue burning permits within or in areas bordering any municipality where municipal burning restrictions are already in place.
Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) continues to work with all local authorities and emergency management partners, including the Manitoba Wildfire Service to provide guidance and support for emergency response activities. Manitoba EMO continues to work closely with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and the Canadian Red Cross in supporting ISC-led response measures with First Nation communities.
For further information on Manitoba Wildfire Service, situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links go to gov.mb.ca.
To report a wildfire, call 911 or the T.I.P. line (toll-free) at 1-800-782-0076.
