The recent warm, windy weather and the lack of rainfall we have been experiencing has caused the Grande Prairie area wildfire hazard to increase to MODERATE. In the month of September Grande Prairie wildfire crews have responded to one fire which was extinguished at 0.10 Ha. So far this season there have been 70 fires in the Grande Prairie forest area that have burned a total of 136.79 hectares.
If you spot smoke or fire in forested areas call 310-FIRE immediately to report it.
Hunting Season has Arrived.
As hunters head out into forested areas it is important to remember that small warming and cooking fires that are not properly extinguished can burn deep into the ground over the winter months and emerge in the spring as a wildfire.
If you are camping or recreating in a forested area please do your part to prevent wildfire and always make sure you have completely put out your campfire before you leave it.
Soak it, stir it, soak it again - If you can still feel heat coming from it, it is not extinguished.
Off-Highway vehicle exhausts are extremely hot, and can quickly reach temperatures of over 200 Celsius. These temperatures can dry out even wet, muddy debris quickly. This smouldering debris can potentially start a wildfire when it drops from the vehicle into dry grass.
You can prevent this by stopping regularly to clean off any debris that has built up near the exhaust and muffler, under the seat, in wheel wells and around the engine. Carry a small extinguisher or a bucket and collapsible shovel to ensure that any hot debris is completely extinguished before you leave it.
Ride debris free and lower your risk of starting a wildfire.
Get the most up-to-date wildfire information for the entire province by downloading the Alberta Wildfire app for Andriod or Apple devices.
For more information contact:
Melinda Paplawski | Wildfire Information Officer
Alberta Agriculture and Forestry
Grande Prairie Forest Area
Cell: (780) 933-1929