Chauvin Fire & Rescue Society

10/19/2026

Statement from Aime Smyl, Director of Protective Services – Fire Chief, Town of Wainwright – October 19, 2026

Currently, the fire is contained in the M.D. of Wainwright boundary and is not expected to pass the fire guard. Lingering smoke may continue in the days ahead.

I am extremely proud of our Wainwright Fire & Rescue team (Town and M.D. of Wainwright Fire Department) for the professionalism, courage, and dedication they displayed during this very difficult incident. Their commitment to serving and protecting our community was evident every step of the way.

I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the following agencies for their prompt response, support, and cooperation during this incident.

• National Defence Fire Services Wainwright
• Village of Irma Fire Department
• Village of Chauvin Fire Department
• Village of Edgerton Fire Department
• Town of Vermilion Fire Department
• Lloydminster Fire Rescue
• Alberta Wildfire
• East Central 9-1-1
• RCMP
• Healthcare providers and professionals

I am also humbled by the number of departments that reached out to help.
I send thoughts and prayers to those directly impacted, their loved ones, and everyone affected by this incident.
At this time, our priority is maintaining our ability to provide emergency response services to the Town and M.D. As such, I will not be available for interviews, as my full attention is on supporting the community.

10/18/2026

INCIDENT UPDATE #002

The Municipal District of Wainwright No. 61 Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC) has been established. Official incident updates will be issued through this channel only.

The fire south of Wainwright crossed the base fence earlier today and is being actively managed. The active fire area is south of Township Road 44-0. Firefighting resources from multiple jurisdictions are actively responding.

There is no evacuation order at this time. Emergency crews remain focused on protecting life safety, homes, and other structures.
Please:
• Avoid the incident area and do not stop to watch or take photos.
• Keep roads clear so emergency personnel and equipment can move safely.
• Avoid visiting the Wainwright Health Centre unless you have a critical medical need.

An incident information line is now open at 780-842-4454 for residents directly affected by this incident. This line is not for media inquiries. If you are in immediate danger, have an injury, face an active fire threat, or have another emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Further verified information will be shared here as it becomes available.

10/17/2026

A huge thank you to the fantastic students and staff of Dr. Folkins ElementarySchool.
Chauvin Fire and Rescue loved having you attend our Fire Prevention Week Presentation.

Congratulations to the winners of our coloring contest who all did an amazing job.
Kindergarten - Wrenley McMann
Grade 1 - Westyn Davies
Grade 2 - Hallie Faux
Grade 3 - Luke Bambrick

You all did a fantastic job learning about fire safety, asking great questions and checking out the gear.

10/08/2026

Tips on battery charging

Why It Matters

Larger battery packs—such as those powering e-bikes, electric scooters, and cordless power tools—store a massive amount of energy. If a high-capacity lithium-ion battery fails or enters thermal runaway, the resulting fire burns extremely hot, releases toxic gases, and spreads much faster than a standard electronics fire. Charging these devices outdoors lowers the risk of trapping residents inside or destroying property if a malfunction occurs.

Safe Charging Best Practices

• Charge Outside: Whenever possible, plug in your e-scooters, e-bikes, and commercial power tools outdoors in a dry, flat area away from direct sunlight.
• Keep Exits Clear: Never charge your "rides" or tools in hallways, entryways, or directly in front of doors. If a battery catches fire, it can instantly block your only escape route.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not leave batteries to charge outside during extreme heat (above 104°F / 40°C) or freezing cold (below 32°F / 0°C), as temperature extremes permanently damage cells and increase volatility.
• Unplug When Full: Disconnect chargers as soon as the device reaches 100% capacity. Continuous overcharging subjects the battery to unnecessary thermal stress.
• Say No to Soft Surfaces: If you must charge smaller tools or devices inside, always place them on hard, flat, non-flammable surfaces (like a concrete floor, desk, or table) rather than beds, couches, or carpets.
• Watch for Warning Signs: Immediately stop using and unplug any battery that feels intensely hot, emits an odor, changes shape/swells, leaks, or makes unusual hissing or popping sounds.

10/07/2026

Here are a few safe charging Safety tips

10/06/2026

10/05/2026

It’s Fire Prevention week October 5-11 2026

Here area a few Saftey tips on E-bike charging.