Courtesy of Big Lakes County
There are currently three (3) fires burning in Big Lakes County: Grizzly Ridge, East Prairie (Enilda, Banana Belt, and Gilwood), and Blue Lake. The three (3) fires are all being held.
Please be aware that Big Lakes County Fire Services and Alberta Wildfires are still actively fighting the fires. The County will be conducting an assessment of fire affected structures and will have more information regarding any damage or losses in the coming days. Please do not drive over any inflated hose lines or interfere with any equipment that is set up. This is still an active fire, and the State of Local Emergency remains in place. While weather conditions have improved, please be on alert for any weather changes, as the situation could change quickly. If you spot fire flare ups on your property, please call 310-FIRE IMMEDIATELY.
A 1 HOUR evacuation alert remains in effect for Big Lakes County residents in the Enilda, Gilwood, and Banana Belt areas. This means that residents can safely return to their properties but must be PREPARED to evacuate should an evacuation order be issued.
Highway 749 is open. There will be lane restrictions, speed reductions, and flag persons on site to monitor safety while ATCO conducts operations to restore power in the area. PLEASE be respectful of the worker’s safety and SLOW DOWN as they make efforts to restore utilities to the area.
A boil water advisory is still in effect for the Riverbend Co-op Water System. This advisory ONLY AFFECTS the Riverbend pumphouse in the Gilwood area located on Highway 749, South of Township Road 740 and along Township Road East of Highway 749.
Big Lakes County would like to thank our community members who have responded with such understanding and support – especially towards our Fire Services staff and our dedicated VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS. Residents who have suffered their own losses in so many ways, yet have responded overwhelmingly with patience, goodwill, calmness, kindness, and support. We thank you for your understanding.
Over the next few days and weeks, we will continue to keep you informed through our website and Facebook page. We have also set up an email address, should you have any wildfire questions at EVAC@biglakescounty.ca.
