July 6, 2026. | 10:30 AM – COMMUNITY FIRE UPDATE

Attention Residents Of Fort Simpson:

Yesterday was a quieter operational period overall, with firefighters focused on extinguishing remaining hot spots and establishing structure protection in the 4 Mile area. Lighter overnight winds led to a few flare-ups, but structure protection crews responded quickly and prevented any further loss.

The fire remains active in and around all subdivisions, as well as on the hills below Wildrose and near the trailer court. With vegetation and ground fuels extremely dry, even light winds can cause small flames to spread into unburned fuels such as wood piles, sheds, and other combustible materials.

Winds are currently light, but stronger southeast winds are forecast later today. These conditions have the potential to push the fire toward the east side of Wildrose and increase the threat to the trailer court. In anticipation of this, an additional structure protection task force has recently arrived in the Village. Crews and their fire engines are preparing for the possibility of increased fire activity and stand ready to defend the community.

A reminder regarding satellite fire maps such as NASA FIRMS: these platforms do not confirm the presence of active fire. They detect thermal anomalies, meaning that a large plume of hot smoke can appear as widespread fire activity even when the heat being detected is primarily from the smoke itself.

Finally, the State of Local Emergency declared by the Village yesterday is a legal measure that enables us to operate under emergency conditions and access the authorities and resources needed to respond effectively. It does not indicate how long the incident is expected to last or when residents may be able to return. If the incident extends beyond the initial seven-day period, the declaration can be renewed. If the incident is resolved sooner, it will be rescinded.

To all of our residents currently outside the community, we are thinking of you and hope you will join us in hoping—and, for those who wish, praying—for calmer winds and continued progress in protecting our community.

Mahsi Cho, Thanks,

 -Village Incident Command