YELLOWKNIFE (June 29, 2022) – This special bulletin is issued to update residents and media on the current status of wildfire FS-008 in the Dehcho region between Fort Simpson and Wrigley, and address concerns being circulated in the region.
Current status
Fire FS-008 has grown to approximately 3,000 hectares on both sides of the highway, about 6 km north of the Willowlake River and 40 km south of Wrigley.
Communities
We are hearing residents are concerned that the wildfire may be threatening the community of Wrigley.
We want to hit home that this is false at this time.
There is a lot of smoke out there, and with the highway and ferry shut down, and flames visible from many areas, it is natural to feel unnerved.
But please, do your best to avoid sharing unconfirmed information.
What we’re doing
There are multiple fire crews onsite, as well as a Incident Management Team protecting cabins to the north and the houses at Willowlake River. There is also an air tanker group based in Fort Simpson attacking the fire from the air regularly.
We will keep you updated daily on the status of this fire as this situation evolves.
What to expect
Over the coming days, we expect this wildfire to continue to grow with dry weather, and smoke to remain heavy for a 10km radius around the fire. Visibility on the open sections of highway remains poor.
What you can do
While there is no threat to the community now, situations can change fast and it’s important to stay aware and be prepared. Here’s what you can do:
- Listen, watch, and read credible local news sources to stay up to date on the latest.
- Avoid gossip and rumors – they can make things much harder for responders!
- Review your emergency plans and emergency kits to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice in case the situation changes. Anywhere where wildfire can be a threat, this is always a good idea.
- Follow local air quality notifications from the health department and take care of vulnerable folks in your life.
- Avoid all open flames, never leave any fire unattended, and use the soak-stir-soak method with water and a stick until the area above the embers is cold to the touch. More fires will only add to the danger and challenge our wildfire team even more
Stay up-to-date
Follow NWT Fire for the latest:
Follow the department of infrastructure for the latest on ferries and highways:
For media requests, please contact:
Jessica Davey-Quantick
Wildfire Information Officer
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
867-445-5484