Grande Prairie Area Update

Grande Prairie Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 7, 2024

Written by Kelly Burke | May 7, 2024 9:15:16 PM

The wildfire danger in the Grande Prairie Forest Area is VERY HIGH. Warm weather and windy conditions has increased the wildfire risk in the Grande Prairie Forest Protection Area (FPA). We urge residents and visitors to exercise caution and take steps to prevent wildfires.

Before heading out, please check albertafirebans.ca to determine whether there is a fire advisory, fire restriction or fire ban in effect for your destination. A fire restriction is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

Wildfire information

Since January 1, 2024, 25 wildfires have been reported in the Grande Prairie Forest Area burning 80 hectares. All fires are listed as extinguished, 22 of these were human caused and three remain under investigation.

2023 carryover wildfires

There are currently three carryover fires from the 2023 wildfire season. All carryover wildfires are listed as under control and are being monitored by firefighters.

A fire restriction is in effect for all of the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, excluding the Calgary Forest Area.

  • Under this restriction:
    -       Existing fire permits are restricted, suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
    -       Safe wood campfires within fire rings in campgrounds are allowed.
     
    Prohibited on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas:
    -       All outdoor wood fires.
    -       Fires fueled exclusively by charcoal briquettes.
    -       The use of fireworks and exploding targets.
     
    Allowed in designated campgrounds on private and public land, designated day use areas and on privately owned land:
    -       Safe wood campfires.
    -       Backyard fire pits, charcoal briquette barbeques.
    -       Propane/ natural gas-powered appliances CSA approved or UL certified.
     
    Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.

    If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.

  • For more information: Fire Restriction Fact Sheet

    The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve.

    Stay informed on fire restrictions and fire bans in your area bay checking www.albertafirebans.ca

 

Download the Alberta Wildfire app today and get access to real-time information on wildfires in your area. You can also find information on reporting wildfire, fire bans and fire updates across the province and much more all on your mobile device.

Available for Apple and Android.

To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire

Status Dashboard

Emergency Preparedness Week 

 

Emergency Preparedness Week 2024 is a national event in Canada that takes place during the first full week of May. This year, it runs from May 5 to May 11, 2024. The theme for this year’s event is “Be Prepared. Know Your Risks.”  

Getting the right information at the right time helps you respond quickly and 
appropriately. Get alerts by downloading the Alberta Emergency Alert app and visit Alerts and advisories to learn what other alerting services are available. 

During times of high wildfire danger, grass fires can start and spread fast. It is important to use caution while working or recreating in Alberta’s forests. 

When wildfire danger is low to moderate, updates will be issued weekly. However, when the danger escalates to high or extreme levels, updates will be provided daily if fires are active and/ or out of control. Expect your next wildfire update on May 8, 2024, unless conditions change.

 

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 832-7235
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