Grande Prairie Area Update

Grande Prairie Area Update April 30, 2023

Posted on Sun, Apr 30, 2023

gfx-hsb-wildfiredangerupdate-high.jpg

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

wildfire app (3)

Wildfire Situation | April 30, 2023 

Since January 1, 2023, there have been 11 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area burning nearly 59 hectares. At this time, nine of these fires have been extinguished, one is being held, and one has been turned over to the responsible party for extinguishment.  

For information on the wildfire situation across the province of Alberta visit Alberta Wildfire status 

Warm and windy weather has dried areas of dead grass. Dead grass is a fine fuel. This means any moisture such as rain or dew on dead grass dries up quickly during sunny and warming weather. When dry, the dead grass is extremely flammable. It will catch on fire easily from a small spark, and spread quickly, even under light winds. Check fall and winter burn sites for signs of smoke or flame and use your hand to feel for heat. 

Find wildfire forecasts, weather maps and information about how fire danger is monitored in Alberta  https://www.alberta.ca/fire-weather-and-forecasts.aspx

Fire Advisory banner

A fire advisory is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area due to drying conditions and high wind.
 
Under this advisory:
•    Existing fire permits are still valid.
•    New permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, only for essential burning.
 
Prohibited:
•    Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire.
 
Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.
 
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 or work-related sparks, friction and hot exhaust can cause even small amounts of dry fuels to ignite into a wildfire.
 
If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE
 
The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.

 

report wildfire banner

Thank you for doing your part to prevent wildfires, if you spot a wildfire call 310-FIRE (3473)

 

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 832 7235

kelly.burke@gov.ab.ca

Phone: 1-866-394-3473

 

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. When traveling through the Forest Protection Area during the fire season, carry a shovel or an axe and a receptacle of at least 5 litres liquid capacity.

OHV Poster

Subscribe to Grande Prairie Area Updates