Drifting smoke from other Maritime wildfires prompting fire calls in Fredericton

Smoke from wildfires in Nova Scotia and other parts of New Brunswick is drifting over Fredericton, prompting widespread fire calls to 9-1-1.  


Residents will continue to experience haze and a strong smell of smoke as winds from the southwest intensify through Saturday afternoon. Ongoing smoke conditions are monitored by FireSmoke Canada, available here.


The Fredericton Fire Department requests that residents remain alert and look for signs of fire, including plumes, rising smoke or flames when calling 9-1-1.  


Since Monday, Fredericton Firefighters have contained fires in various parts of the City as they have occurred throughout the community thanks to early detection made possible in part by the vigilance of residents.


The City extends a sincere thank you to Fredericton Firefighters and first responders who have been responding to calls rapidly and effectively to keep our city safe from wildfires. 


Persistent dry and hot conditions continue to create a heightened risk of wildfire in Fredericton with safety restrictions expected to continue throughout the weekend. Residents are strongly urged to avoid all wooded and forested areas to lower the risk of accidental fires. 
 

Park Safety and Access:

  • Wooded areas of Odell Park, Killarney Lake Park and the UNB Woodlot are still closed to activities. These closures do not affect the beach and lake at Killarney Lake, the ballfields at Odell Park, or the lodges at both parks. All other trails and parks across the city remain open. All other trails and parks within the city remain open.
  • To find the exact locations affected, please refer to this comprehensive map of all current restrictions within the City of Fredericton. The map will be updated as the situation evolves and can be accessed here.
  • Signage is posted throughout these areas to inform residents.

Fire Ban Remains in Effect: 

  • A citywide fire ban remains in place until further notice, covering all private residences, private campgrounds, commercial, and public properties.
  • The ban does not apply to barbecues or natural gas/propane fire pits, as these do not produce sparks or embers. Backyard fires of any other kind are prohibited.
  • The ban includes all charcoal barbecues in City parks, including Wilmot Park, Odell Park, and Killarney Lake Park. 
  • The Fredericton Fire Department remains prepared and ready to address any issues that may arise.

Water Supply Status

  • Currently, there are no restrictions or immediate concerns regarding the City’s water supply, but we ask residents to use water wisely. Any changes or updates will be communicated directly by the City. Residents are encouraged to avoid excessive water usage in line with recommendations from the Government of New Brunswick.  Any updates on potential water restrictions will come from the City of Fredericton.  


Fires that violate the fire ban should be reported to 9-1-1 immediately. 

Should the Government of New Brunswick issue a notice to prepare for possible evacuation in our area, the City of Fredericton will promptly amplify and share the information. Evacuation details will be communicated as deemed necessary by the Government of New Brunswick, recognizing that the situation remains fluid and subject to change.


Police, Fire, City staff, and community partners continue to visit known encampment areas of those living rough to reinforce the importance of fire safety and respecting the fire ban.


The City of Fredericton remains in active Level 2 Emergency Measures Operations in response to the ongoing wildfire hazard across New Brunswick. Residents are reminded that their cooperation is essential to ensuring the safety of the community during this critical time. We all have a role to play in keeping our city safe, which includes staying out of wooded areas.


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