Emergency Services has issued a pre-evacuation alert to Candle Lake residents to help them prepare for a possible evacuation due to the “Camp” and “Shoe” wildfires.

The alert advises the community to be prepared with prescription medications, important documents, computers and laptops, valuables, personal items such as clothing, toiletries and phone chargers, as well as supplies for pets. The alert advises residents to make sure to organize accommodation outside the Resort Village and make sure vehicles are fueled up.

The proximity of the wildfires is within 20 kms of Candle Lake, according to the most recent update.

Candle Lake has $650 million worth of property, 900 fulltime residents, and within the neighbourhood of 2500 cabins. This long weekend is expected to bring an influx of 10 to 15 thousand people to the area.

The order states they are not advising people to stay away from Candle Lake over the May long weekend, but if planning to be at the lake this weekend, be prepared and watch for updates.

Fire Chief Jim Arnold says the SPSA advises if evacuation is needed and has asked them to give him as much advance warning as soon possible, to coordinate getting residents out of the area, if need be.

Fire Chief Arnold said waterbombers, helicopters and bull dozers are being used. There is no rain in the forecast.

For updates, refer to the Resort Village Facebook page and the Candle Lake website.