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With the threat of wildfire growing closer to Snow Lake, Manitoba, residents are being encouraged to prepare to evacuate.
A 48-hour evacuation alert was issued on Tuesday morning, with the evacuation being voluntary at this time.
Residents who choose to leave can take pull-behind equipment, such as trailers, boats and campers. However, if a 24-hour evacuation alert is issued, this will no longer be permitted.
"We would like to remind all citizens that the Town is NOT under a mandatory evacuation order at this time," said the town in a post on their social media page. "In the event that a mandatory evacuation order is issued, it will be clearly communicated via this Facebook page, and our website."
As of Wednesday evening, around 1,000 people had chosen to leave town, and that number is expected to climb.
Snow Lake officials say the fire department continues to saturate the bush surrounding the town and has implemented a 24-hour rotating schedule to ensure they have consistent coverage.
The Manitoba Wildfire Service continues to respond to 27 active wildfires across the province.