Out of control wildfire prompts emergency alert in small Alberta community

The Champion Lakes wildfire, which is just over half a square kilometre, is burning about 15 kilometres from the hamlet of Bragg Creek. (Photo: Image Editor/Flickr)

BRAGG CREEK, Alta. — A wildfire near a small community outside of Calgary has led to a local state of emergency in the area.

The Champion Lakes wildfire, which is just over half a square kilometre, is burning about 15 kilometres from the hamlet of Bragg Creek.

It’s classified as out of control but there’s no immediate danger to the small community, about 45 kilometres southwest of Calgary.

Officials have put a voluntary emergency evacuation order in place for some areas.

Residents and visitors are being asked to keep their cellphones charged and to stay tuned to Alberta Emergency Alert for updates.

There are 28 firefighters, seven helicopters and eight pieces of heavy equipment working to reinforce a guard around the fire.

A second wildfire, which is just over a square kilometre, is under control and being mopped up by crews just west of Cochrane, Alta.

A total of 27 wildfires are burning in the province, with seven considered out of control.