Peter Shokeir | [email protected]
Wildfire specialists located and extinguished a small wildfire caused by a lightning strike in the Wabasso Lake area on July 11.
After a member of the public reported smoke, the crew arrived to find a small, smouldering fire and extinguished the fire within six hours of receiving the report.
鈥淲ildfire crews have been monitoring this fire and other previously reported smoke locations during regular and daily helicopter patrols,鈥� Parks Canada said in a July 16 update.
鈥淣o other fires have been detected this week. This is a prime example of how members of the public can play a significant role in wildfire efforts by reporting observations.鈥�
On July 10, smoke was also reported north of Medicine Lake.
As the fire crew followed up on this report, a storm came in with heavy showers, which likely extinguished the fire since the crew did not detect any smoke in the area.
The area was monitored for smoke in the following days but no fire was detected.
There are currently no active wildfires in Jasper National Park, although smoke from wildfires in the west is visible and may affect those outside.
Parks Canada advised visitors and residents to check the smoke forecast and air quality report before heading outdoors.
Due to the recent heatwave, a fire ban remains in place for all day-use areas and backcountry campgrounds in Jasper National Park.
Campfires are only permitted in front-country campgrounds and on private property in designated metal firepits.
This fire ban will continue until significant rainfall occurs and the danger decreases.
The fire danger rating is currently very high.
To report wildfires, illegal campfires or suspicious smoke, contact Parks Canada Dispatch at 780-852-6155.
