Seven crews with Yukon Wildland Fire Management are being deployed to Alberta today to assist with the forest fire situation in that province.

"Alberta has seen an increase in fire activity recently, and as a result, a request was made to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre for additional support,” duty officer Dan Baikie said today.

"Fortunately, our fire activity has slowed significantly, so we were able to provide some resources.”

The 21 firefighters being sent are from across the territory. They include six firefighters each from Dawson City, Whitehorse and Haines Junction, as well another three from Mayo.

Accompanying them will be one radio operator and one agency representative. Once crews arrive in Alberta, they will be deployed as needed.

In terms of Yukon resources providing support outside the territory the 21 firefighters and two personnel join one Yukon-based air tanker group that was deployed to the Northwest Territories last Friday.

It is anticipated a second airtanker group will be exported to Alberta later this week.

All of the Yukon resources can be recalled to the territory within 24 hours if necessary.

Given the low to moderate fire danger rating across the territory, however, that is not expected.

"Last month, we had several Alberta crews assisting us here in the Yukon, so it's nice to be able to return the favour,” said Baikie.

"It's an excellent opportunity for our staff to be able to apply their skills in another jurisdiction and gain some valuable firefighting experience.”

Alberta has had 886 fires to date this season, whereas the Yukon has had 79 total blazes, burning approximately 73,250 hectares.

In the past 24 hours alone, there have been 37 new fires in Alberta.

The public is being asked to exercise caution when burning and be aware of any suspicious smoke.

If you see a wildfire, please report it immediately to 1-888-798-FIRE (3473).