Jasper wildfire: Cool weather, rain help crews fight fire

The Chetamon wildfire burning in Jasper National Park is getting easier for crews to control thanks to cooler weather and some much needed rain.

Parks Canada says 120 firefighters and five helicopters are in the area working to put out the fire.

“Extinguishing hot spots along the fire’s perimeter remain the priority,” Parks Canada said in a release.

Crews have been working in tough terrain and on steep slopes for the past few days.

Parks Canada adds it’s important to make sure any fire burning underground doesn’t pop back up in the winter or spring.

Meanwhile, officials are again reminding people with drones not to fly their gadgets anywhere in the national park, especially near the area of the fire.

“Four drone-related incidents have resulted in charges,” Parks Canada said.

In particular, eight helicopters dropping buckets of water on the fire were grounded earlier this month because of drones flying in the area.

Fire aircraft pilots have to deal with thick smoke and heavy winds, as well as the fire itself, all while flying low to the ground. Parks Canada says pilots shouldn’t have to watch out for drones on top of those hazards.

You can face up to $25,000 in charges for illegally flying a drone in the national park.