YELLOWKNIFE (August 5, 2015) – Fire ZF-014, near Reid Lake, continues to grow with extreme fire conditions in the area. The GNWT is working to suppress the fire and ensure the safety of the public. The following are updates from the various government agencies involved in the response to this wildfire.
Environment and Natural Resources (ENR)
ENR is coordinating fire suppression activities. This includes fire crews stationed at the Reid Lake campground as well as air monitoring and suppression activities. ENR crews are working to protect values in the area.
For the latest updates on NWT fire conditions visit www.nwtfire.com The NWT Fire Facebook page, and the ENR website www.enr.gov.nt.ca.
Transportation (DOT)
DOT has closed Highway 4 just past the Reid Lake campground entrance to all traffic. No traffic will be let past the closure until safe passage can be ensured.
For the latest updates on highway conditions, visit www.dot.gov.nt.ca, call 1-800-661-0750, or follow @GNWT_DOT on Twitter.
Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI)
ITI has issued an evacuation order for Reid Lake Territorial Park Campground due to threat of wildfire.
At this time the campground will be closed until further notice. Campers who were unable to remove valuables from the park before the closure please call 873-7317.
Campers who wish to cancel a booking can do so without penalty by contacting 445-1717 for the period of August 5-14. For Extended Stay Campsite holders a refund will be provided at a pro-rated daily rate once the park re-opens. For more information visit www.iti.gov.nt.ca.
Health and Social Services (HSS)
HSS is advising residents with concerns about smoke to see the Health Effects of Smoke Exposure due to Forest Fire information sheet | French Link (http://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/sites/default/files/health_effects_of_smoke_exposure_due_to_forest_fire_0.pdf).
For more information visit www.hss.gov.nt.ca.
Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA)
MACA, through the Emergency Measures Office, is advising cabin owners in the Pickerel Lake area that a voluntary evacuation is being recommended at this time.
MACA continues to coordinate GNWT resources and notify the public about the current fire situation.
Further Information
New Public Safety Updates will be provided as information becomes available. Updates will be distributed to local media and posted online at www.gov.nt.ca.
Media Inquiries by Topic
Fire conditions and fire suppression: Judy McLinton at 867-445-2297.
Health concerns about smoke conditions: Damien Healy at 867-767-9052 ext. 49034
Highway conditions and status: Nick Hurst at 867-767-9082 ext. 31045
Territorial park/campground closures: Briony Wright 867-920-6109
GNWT emergency response: David Maguire at 867-920-3092