Things 'stable' in Fort Smith, N.W.T., with nearby wildfire being held

N.W.T. Fire continues to monitor a fire near Fort Smith, N.W.T., after the fire was declared held late Saturday evening.

"The situation is stable," N.W.T. Fire spokesperson Mike Westwick told CBC on Sunday morning, adding that territorial fire crews are working with local crews in Fort Smith to make sure the fire does not become a problem again.

This fire, near Fort Smith's east end, was the first officially reported wildfire of the summer in Northwest Territories. It's held at four hectares in size.

"It's suspected to be person-caused… which is very unfortunate," Westwick said.

He is urging people to do everything they can to prevent fires when they are out on the land.

"Throughout the south of the territory, we're seeing really dry conditions, we are seeing some elevated winds," he said. "That means that if fire gets on the landscape it can take off pretty quickly and become a challenge to deal with it."

Fort Smith's mayor Dana Fergusson is also urging residents to be mindful when using fire out on the land, adding that this isn't the first time a person-caused wildfire has started near Fort Smith trails.

She is also urging all residents of Fort Smith to ensure they have a go-bag ready. She recommended people gather important documents and other necessities in an easy-to-grab place.

Fergusson also recommended that people keep their vehicles fuelled, noting the long lines at the gas station in town on Saturday evening.

"It is the season. I know it's not what we want, but be prepared because it is summer now and we have to be ready for this kind of event," she said.