Grande Prairie Area Update

Grande Prairie Forest Area Wildfire Update - September 5, 2024

Posted on Thu, Sep 05, 2024

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The wildfire danger for the Grande Prairie Forest Area is HIGH.

Hunters as you head out into forested areas this fall, keep in mind that small cooking and warming fires that are not properly extinguished can burn deep into the ground.  To properly extinguish a fire, completely soak the area with water, stir up the ashes and soak it again.

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Wildfire Situation

So far this year, 100 wildfires have been reported in the Grande Prairie Forest Area, burning nearly 410 hectares. Of the 100 wildfires, four are listed as under control, all others have been extinguished. 

Firefighters urge everyone to use caution when working or recreating in the outdoors, as a fire can ignite easily and will spread quickly. Fire permit holders must postpone burning when winds will exceed the safe burning conditions outlined on the fire permit. Firefighters in helicopters and airtankers are ready to respond to any new wildfires that may start.

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Fire Permits

During wildfire season, you are required to have a fire permit to burn within the Forest Protection Area (FPA), with the exception of a campfire. 

Do not burn during windy conditions. You must evaluate the weather at your specific location and follow the conditions on your permit. You are responsible if a fire escapes the burn permit area.  Albertans can request a free fire permit by contacting their local forestry office or using the online Fire Permit Portal. Contact your local fire guardian or visit a Forestry office for a permit.

Spirit River                      (780) 814 1983

Valleyview                       (780) 524 6576

County West                   (780) 814 1648

Thank you for doing your part to prevent wildfires. If you spot a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.

 
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Wildfire Prevention

When travelling on an off-highway vehicle (OHV) stop regularly and check around the exhaust and wheel wells for any buildup of flammable material, especially after passing through tall grass or muskeg. Debris heated by the exhaust system can fall to the ground and start a wildfire without you noticing. When traveling through the Forest Protection Area during the fire season, carry a shovel or an axe and a receptacle of at least 5L liquid capacity.

Wildfire prevention is everyone's responsibility. Be careful with fire and limit the number of human caused wildfires in our area. 


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 September 7, 2024, unless conditions change.

 

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 832-7235

 

 

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