Although cooler temperatures and some light rain fell along the eastside of the Grande Prairie Forest Area. The amount is not enough to improve conditions significantly or for the long term. The fine fire fuels such as dead grass require only a few hours of warm temperatures to dry out and become flammable.
A fire ban and OHV restriction remains in effect and firefighters urge everyone to continue using caution and to report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473).
Wildfire Situation | May 9, 2023
Since January 1, 2023, there have been 24 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area. At this time, nearly 24, 000 hectares. Of these fires, four are listed as out of control (OC), four are under control, two are being held, two have been turned over to the responsible party for extinguishment and 12 of these fires have been extinguished,
For information on the wildfire situation across the province of Alberta visit Alberta Wildfire status.
For the an accurate forecast of wildfire smoke, go to FIRESMOKE CANADA for hourly ground-level concentration of smoke particles from wildfires.
Find wildfire forecasts, weather maps and information about how fire danger is monitored in Alberta https://www.alberta.ca/fire-weather-and-forecasts.aspx
A provincial state of emergency has been declared. Albertans who require assistance can call 310-4455 for wildfire related information. https://www.alberta.ca/emergency.aspx
FIRE BAN AND OHV RESTRICTION IN EFFECT
A fire ban and OHV restriction is in effect within the Forest Protection Area due to extreme fire danger.
Under this fire ban:
All existing Fire Permits are suspended (or cancelled)
No new Fire Permits will be issued
Prohibited:
All outdoor wood fires are banned, including wood campfires on public lands, wood campfires on private land and provincial campgrounds.
Backyard firepits
BBQ charcoal briquettes
The use of fireworks and exploding targets
The recreational use of off-highway vehicles (OHV) on public lands, including designated OHV trails
Allowed:
Propane/natural gas-powered appliances.
Open flame oil devices (e.g., turkey deep fryers, tiki torches)
Indoor wood fires contained within a device with a chimney and spark arrestor
All appliances must be CSA approved and used per manufacturer’s standards
Indigenous people when using an OHV for traditional purposes. Traditional purposes are hunting, fishing, and trapping – including the use of an OHV to travel to the location(s) for these purposes.
Essential industry-related activities requiring the use of OHVs.
Off-highway vehicle use is still permitted on private lands.
If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.
The fire ban will remain in effect until conditions improve.
(780) 832 7235
Phone: 1-866-394-3473