An evacuation status has been downgraded to an evacuation notice for Fort Smith residents, as a wildfire is now “being held.”
The town of Fort Smith reported that crews have made “significant progress.”
“The situation has stabilized, and the risk to structures has been reduced,” said the town.
“There is no immediate threat, but residents in the area should remain prepared in case conditions change. The ECC will continue to monitor the situation this evening, and crews will return tomorrow to address remaining hot spots. General Preparedness Reminder: Keep your go-bags packed and ready. Ensure vehicles remain fueled. Stay alert for further updates,” they said.
The wildfire is still burning on the east side of town, but is “BEING HELD,” Fort Smith Protective Services said.
“There is still a possible risk to the Town so an EVACUATION NOTICE remains in place.”
An evacuation notice is a warning to be prepared, it is meant to give residents time to be ready for a possible evacuation, explained Fort Smith Protective Services in an update posted on social media.
The town reported that the fire is located within city boundaries.
“You are not required to leave at this time but you must be prepared to leave. Failure to do so may result in you or your family not having the supplies you require, such as medications,” said Fort Smith Protective Services at about 8:15 p.m. this evening..
Fort Smith Protective Services said that the evacuation notice will remain in effect until further notice and warned that residents may receive limited notice to evacuate “due to changing conditions.”
The town is asking residents to be prepared to evacuate.
“General Preparedness Reminder: Have your go-bags packed and ready. Ensure vehicles are fueled and ready to go. Stay alert for further updates,” said town officials.
Fort Smith Protective Services offered this advice for what residents should do for when an EVACUATION NOTICE is in effect:
Locate your 72-hour kits for you and your family.
Gather essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers, immediate care needs for dependents.
Replenish any items that have expired or need replacement, ensure you and your family members have enough clothing and incidentals for a 72-hour period and have these items readily available for quick departure.
For a complete list of what to include, go to https://bit.ly/alertable-72hr.
Contact family members, advise them of the situation and determine a meeting location outside of the evacuation area where you can safely reconnect should the area be evacuated.
Monitor the town website at fortsmith.ca and the Town Facebook pages for information and watch for further updates.
Listen to local news stations for information and watch for further updates.
Follow the directions of local authorities.
DO NOT call 9-1-1 OR 872-2222 for information or updates.
“The situation has stabilized, and the risk to structures has been reduced thanks to the aggressive effort from crews, heavy equipment, and air support,” said NWT Fire.
Earlier this evening, NWT Fire reported that the wildfire was classified as “out of control” and “exhibiting aggressive behaviour,” and an evacuation alert was issued for residents.
NWT Fire reported the fire was estimated at four hectares in size and was burning on the east end of Fort Smith near Primrose and Carl Drive.
NWT Fire said that crews from Fort Smith Protective Fire Service and GNWT were “attacking this fire aggressively” with the help of water tenders and a bush truck. Two helicopters were out with fire crews, using water drops to reduce fire intensity, while two bulldozers had also been mobilized to help contain the fire, said NWT Fire.
“Smoke is highly visible in town. Please avoid the area, allow emergency services staff the space to do their work, and listen to any directions or signage on the ground,” said Mike Westwick, a wildfire information officer with GNWT in an announcement issued this evening.
Officials reported the fire is suspected to be “person-caused.”
The public is being asked to avoid the area and listen to any directions or signage on the ground.
