Photo taken by Jarret Nelson north of Prince Albert

The Resort Village of Candle Lake has posted its Thursday wildfire update. The notice indicates that the Shoe fire is about 12 kilometres from the town, as last reported by the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency.

It adds that winds brought smoke into the Village last night but appear to be somewhat favourable today. However, the fire continues to move toward the village.

The SPSA suggests no mandatory evacuation is recommended at this time, but the voluntary evacuation advisory remains in effect, and anyone who is not an essential worker is advised to leave the community.

The update says for the safety of residents, it is strongly advised that they do not try to fight this fire on their own. The Shoe fire was 471,418 hectares in size as of Wednesday according to the SPSA.

Due to the current state of emergency in Candle Lake caused by the encroaching Shoe fire, several municipal service changes are being made to free up Resort Village staff and equipment.

The village’s Wednesday afternoon wildfire update stated that this week, regular waste collection days stay the same, but starting next week, there will be one pick-up per week on Wednesdays for all areas.

Another change will see the Landfill only open on Fridays until the emergency is lifted. There will also be a temporary pause of several services, including building & development permits and license issuing, advisory committee meetings, tax certificates and detailed tax inquiries, most administrative counter services, village-run recreation programs, and grass cutting and routine street maintenance.

The June 13th Executive Committee of the Whole Council Meeting has also been rescheduled to take place on June 26th.