Residents of Slave Lake gathered Monday morning to say goodbye and show their appreciation to all the firefighters from across the province who stepped in to protect the town during a wildfire earlier in the month.
A procession of fire trucks made their way to the town's visitor's centre. It was a small group of the roughly 1,000 firefighters from 30 different fire departments that assisted in the ongoing firefight.
"It's great to see you guys here. You risked your lives to keep our town standing," Slave Lake Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinee told the group Monday morning.
Slave Lake residents officially made their way back into town Friday. Residents say they have nothing but gratitude for the dedication shown to their community during such a difficult time.
"They helped in every way they could," said one resident.
Workers of essential services such as grocery stores, banks and pharmacies made their way in a day before to prepare as the remainder of the evacuated residents arrived.
Around 7,000 Slave Lake residents had to leave quickly nearly two weeks ago when wildfires ripped through the town.
Officials have confirmed there is no longer a threat of wildfires re-starting in Slave Lake, Sawridge or the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River.
Firefighters from Peace River and Parkland County will remain in Slave Lake until the end of the week to help with relief efforts.
As of Monday, there are 39 active wildfires across the province, with four burning out of control.
With files from Sonia Sunger
