The Town of Badger issued an evacuation order today (June 18, 2025) due to the extreme fire behaviour that has occurred and anticipated in the coming days.

Work is ongoing with federal, municipal and community partners to ensure the health and safety of residents in Badger.

Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation. For the most up-to-date information regarding the Badger wildfire, visit www.gov.nl.ca/alerts/ and follow the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on Facebook and on X.

Register
All Badger residents MUST register with the Canadian Red Cross either at Joe Byrne Stadium, or at 709-729-0921.

All residents are required to register to ensure a safe evacuation process, even if residents plan or intend to seek shelter and supports elsewhere.

The Canadian Red Cross, the Salvation Army and Ground Search and Rescue officials are on-site and ready to assist at Joe Byrne Stadium with food, drink and emergency accommodations for those that require assistance.

For those with pets, officials are working on a set up at Joe Byrne Stadium, as well, the Exploits Valley SPCA is located at 13A Duggan Street in Grand Falls-Windsor.

Transportation
Buses are available at the town hall in Badger to assist with transportation to Grand Falls-Windsor if required. If residents require additional assistance, call 709-729-0921.

At this time, there are no impacts to the Trans-Canada Highway in Badger, or Route 370 (Buchans Highway).

NL511 provides up-to-date information on driving conditions, highway cameras, major incidents, current ferry status updates, and weather.

Fire Ban
A province-wide fire ban is effective immediately.

The Fire Commissioner of Newfoundland and Labrador strongly recommends that municipalities, organizations and individuals refrain from any open fires or discharge of fireworks.

To report a wildfire, call: 1-866-709-FIRE (3473).

Use of Drones
The operation of drones in the vicinity of forest fires creates unsafe conditions for water bombers to protect communities.

All drone operators and the general public are asked to respect the dedicated efforts of our province’s firefighting personnel. Unauthorized drone use can result in fines and legal action.

For information about flying your drone safely and legally please visit the Transport Canada website here.

Air Quality
Air Quality Health Index related to forest fires in Badger is currently low risk.

Forest fires can increase air pollution levels. Forest fire smoke contains particles and pollutants that can harm your health.

For air quality information, visit Air Quality Health Index.

Mental Health
An emergency event can lead to fear and anxiety.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, need support, or are looking for health information, call 811.

If you are feeling anxious and alone, you can also call the Lifewise Provincial Warm Line at 1-855-753-2560 seven days a week from 10:00am to midnight NDT, to speak with a trained peer support worker who is there and ready to listen.

You can also visit Bridge the Gapp to access age-appropriate programs and services that are available locally, confidential and free.

Be Prepared
Residents are asked to take steps to ensure their own personal safety. Residents should always have a basic emergency kit available and be prepared for at least 72 hours, with food, water, batteries, a portable radio, important documents and prescription medications. Visit gov.nl.ca/beprepared for more information on emergency preparedness.

Property owners can also protect their homes, neighborhoods, and communities from the threat of wildland fire by creating defensible space around their properties, including:

• Maintaining a five-foot (1.5-metre) non-combustible zone immediately around your home.
• Cleaning out and screening gutters to prevent debris.
• Using fire-resistant roofing materials on homes.
• Cleaning underneath decks and enclosing them to prevent them from filling with debris.
• Placing firewood piles away from your home.
• Trimming grass and weeds.
• Using FireSmart-approved vegetation when landscaping.

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