Grande Prairie Area Update May 2, 2023

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

FIRE RESTRICTION IN EFFECT

A fire restriction is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area due to high fire danger.

Under this restriction:

Existing fire permits are suspended and no new fire permits will be issued

Safe wood campfires within fire rings in campgrounds are allowed.

Prohibited:

All outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas. The use of fireworks and exploding targets are also prohibited.

Allowed:

Safe wood campfires (including charcoal briquettes) on private lands and in provincial campgrounds.

Backyard fire pits, charcoal briquette barbeques.

Propane/ natural gas powered appliances.

Indoor wood fires contained within a device with a chimney and spark arrestor.

Cooking, warming and lighting devices – all devices must be CSA approved and used as per manufacturer’s standards.

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.

The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve.

Please visit albertafirebans.ca to see a map of the exact area covered under this Fire Restriction.

Wildfire Situation | May 2, 2023

Since January 1, 2023, there have been 15 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area burning nearly 73 hectares. At this time, ten of these fires have been extinguished, two are under control, one is being held and two have been turned over to the responsible party for extinguishment.

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

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

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Dry grass, 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.

Do not start any fires or use open flames in areas that are susceptible to catching fire, such as near dry vegetation like grass or wooded areas.
Dispose of cigarettes and other smoking materials properly, do not throw them on the ground.
If you see a wildfire, immediately call 310-FIRE (3473) and report the location of the fire.
Avoid using equipment that could generate sparks, friction or flames, such as power tools or lawn mowers, in areas with dry vegetation.
Ensure grinders and welders are properly maintained and used in areas that are free from dry vegetation.
Have sufficient water and tools on hand. Always keep watch of your surroundings and look around at regular intervals for smoke or flames that may have been accidently ignited.

EXPLODING TARGETS AND FIREWORKS

The use of fireworks, exploding targets within the Forest Protection Area (FPA) is prohibited without written permission from a Forest Officer. Written permission is required year-round. During a fire restriction permits will not be issued for the FPA.

The current fire restriction suspends all permits for use of exploding targets and fireworks during times of high wildfire danger within the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

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Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 832 7235

kelly.burke@gov.ab.ca

Phone: 1-866-394-3473

Alberta Wildfire
Alberta Fire Bans
FireSmart in Alberta
Alberta Emergency Alerts
Air Quality Health Index
Wildfire Smoke and Your Health
511 Road Reports
Emergency Preparation

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Grande Prairie Area Update