Grande Prairie Forest Area - May 22, 2021

Written by Kelly Burke | May 22, 2021 11:08:11 PM

The wildfire danger for the Grande Prairie Forest Area is now HIGH. Last year 88 per cent of wildfires were human-caused, meaning they are preventable. If you are out hunting or recreating this long weekend, always use safe burning practices.

When operating equipment, clear debris from moving parts, check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass. Keep watch of your surroundings and ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available. Equipment fires; work related sparks; friction and hot exhaust all can cause a wildfire. If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE

Wildfire Situation

Since March 1, 2021 there have been 34 wildfires burning nearly 59 hectares in the Grande Prairie Forest Area. For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca

Fireworks and Exploding Targets

The use of fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited without written permission from a Forest Officer. The debris caused when fireworks and exploding targets are detonated are hot and risk causing a wildfire when they come into contact with fuels in the forest, such as dry grass.

'If you are found to be responsible for starting a wildfire, you may have to pay a $600 fine or worse, the cost of fighting the wildfire.’ Learn more about The Forest and Prairie Protection Act here.

Fire Permits

During wildfire season, you are required to have a fire permit if you plan on burning in the Forest Protection Area (FPA), with the exception of a campfire. To request your fire permit, contact the local forest area. Do not burn during windy conditions. You can be held responsible if a fire escapes the burn permit area. Anyone living outside the FPA can contact their municipality for information about local fire permit requirements.

County West / Grovedale - (780) 814-1648
Spirit River – (780) 814-1983
Valleyview – (780) 524-6576

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