Re-entry for residents — Jasper Wildfire Complex

Resident re-entry progress and updates

The Municipality of Jasper is sharing resident re-entry progress updates and information for evacuees on their website.

Re-entry progress: jasper-alberta.ca/p/re-entry-criteria

Evacuee information: jasper-alberta.ca/p/jasperwildfire

 

Re-entry on August 16 is for residents

Resident security concerns have been heard. Your safe return is our priority. We are in this together.

We understand that re-entry may be emotionally challenging, and many Jasper residents have asked if family members, friends, or support people can accompany you—or go in your place. The answer is yes. Whether you need someone to assist with cleaning, emotional support, or someone to represent you, we want you to feel fully supported during this process. Whoever you feel you need by your side or in your place at this time will be allowed entry. We're here to help as you begin to move forward and navigate the road ahead, and the supports you need can take that same road with you.

Please follow the re-entry steps for residents beginning at 7:00 am on August 16, 2024:

1. Residents and business owners coming from east of Jasper must stop at the East Gate to receive their Resident Re-entry Guide and then proceed to the east entrance of town. Residents coming from west of Jasper should travel past the West Gate and go directly to the east entrance of town to receive a Resident Re-entry Guide.
   
   • Residents can show their Parks Canada-issued resident parking pass or self-declare.
   • Resident Re-entry Guides include a placard from ATCO Gas. Once you’ve arrived at your property, *you must place the placard visibly in a window or somewhere easily visible from the street to receive a gas relighting service.*
2. RCMP will be stationed at the east entrance ensuring everyone entering has a Resident Re-entry Guide. The only entrance to town will be the east entrance. To exit town, please drive out the west entrance.
3. Non-residents will be directed to drive through the park on Highway 16 without stopping. Check Alberta 511 for road updates
   
   • Anyone trying to enter town without a Resident Re-entry Guide will be stopped by RCMP and directed to return to Highway 16. It is important that residents have space to process their immense losses in the community.

Residents who live in Jasper but outside of the main townsite will receive instructions when it is safe for them to return at a later date.

What can residents expect once in town?

The state of Jasper is very different now. The process of returning may be intense.  There is disruption to the landscape and property in the townsite due to the emergency response to the fire.

• There is significant damage and possibly triggering sights. Read about the mental health supports before your return.
• The photos you have seen will not prepare you for the smell. Depending on the wind direction, the smell of smoke in town can be overwhelming. Be prepared with N95 masks.
• Things from your balcony or porch may be on the lawn or sidewalk. First responders moved these things following the evacuation order to reduce combustibles next to homes.
• Be prepared to not yet have utilities at your residence.
• Highway 16 is open from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. Residents can come in and out of Jasper with their Resident Re-entry Guide during this time. If you need to leave Jasper after 9:00 pm you will be able to, however between 9:00 pm and 7:00 am you will not be able to re-enter Jasper.
• Wildlife continue to spend time in the town and people must keep a safe distance away. Follow all wildlife safety guidelines.

In addition to the printed Resident Re-Entry Guide, more information to prepare for resident re-entry will be posted online: jasper-alberta.ca/p/re-entry-guide

Images of re-entry preparations

The Unified Command of Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper, as well as supporting agencies, are working hard to prepare for resident re-entry once safe to do so. Images below show the various tasks required to facilitate re-entry.

Blurred images depict damage to infrastructure. Click images to view and enlarge.

 Emotional support and mental health