Four specially trained firefighters from the County of Wetaskiwin deployed to Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories in early July 2026 to help protect the community from a huge wildfire that has forced more than 1,100 residents from their homes.
The team is part of the county’s Wildland Urban Interface unit. They brought a Sprinkler Protection Unit, a specialized piece of equipment that helps shield buildings from approaching flames. The request for help came through the Alberta Emergency Management Agency.
The wildfire, known as FS016-26, started on June 26 and had grown to 51,835 hectares by July 13. An evacuation order was issued for Fort Simpson on June 28. Crews from across the country are now working to get the fire under control. As of the latest update, 119 wildland firefighters and 29 structure protection specialists were on scene, supported by helicopters and air tankers.
Wetaskiwin County officials say they are proud to support neighbours in need. The deployment is part of a wider push by Alberta to make sure communities can send help without worrying about costs. The province began a Mutual Aid Incentive Pilot this year, offering municipalities up to $125,000 to support wildfire response.
Firefighters are now doing the slow, careful work of mopping up. They are putting out deep ash pits that can be hidden just below the surface. Chief Kele Antoine of the Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation warns these pits can be two to four feet deep and cause serious injury, according to a July 13 update. Crews are also building containment lines around the fire perimeter.
It is expected to be at least another week before evacuees can safely return home.
