Grande Prairie Area Update

Grande Prairie Area Update September 1, 2022

Posted on Thu, Sep 01, 2022

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The wildfire danger is VERY HIGH in the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

GP smoke columns from bc-1

Image captured from BC Wildfire Dashboard. (September 1, 2022)

Wildfire Situation | September 1, 2022 - 8:30 PM

VISIBLE SMOKE

To the west, there are visible smoke columns from the Grande Prairie Forest Area. These smoke columns are coming from wildfires in British Columbia. There is no threat to the Grande Prairie Forest Area at this time.

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In the above image it shows there is significant smoke coming from a wildfire in Bearhole Lake Provincial Park in British Columbia. According to the BC Wildfire Dashboard, it is currently 100 hectares in size and is classified as out of control. 

To see the above projected image and more, visit firesmoke.ca

This wildfire in British Columbia is a humble reminder to be very careful when recreating and camping this September long weekend. While this wildfire was caused by lightning, many wildfires are caused from human activity and therefore are completely preventable.

Fire Advisory banner

A FIRE ADVISORY is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area.
 
Due to current and forecasted weather conditions, all fire permits are suspended with the exception of current burn barrel, incinerators, smudges and smoke house permits. New fire permits will not be issued until a significant amount of rain is received. Essential burning will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
 
Prohibited:
• Without a valid fire permit, any burning other than a campfire is prohibited
 
Allowed:
  • Safe wood campfires *
  • Backyard fire pits
  • Portable propane fire pits
  • Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
  • Catalytic or infrared-style heaters
*Safe wood campfires - should be within a metal, brick, or rock fire ring. They are required to:
a)  be on rock, gravel, sand, or another non-combustible surface that extends at least one metre around the fire;
b)  have a responsible person in attendance to keep fire under control at all times and extinguish before leaving;
c)  have on hand enough water on site to extinguish the fire. Safe wood campfires on private lands include private land campgrounds and private land recreation areas; and
d)  Municipalities, Parks and protected areas may have additional fire safety requirements.
 
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.

To view a map of the fire advisory area visit www.albertafirebans.ca

The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve. Firefighters thank you for your cooperation.

Since March 1, 2022 there have been 62 wildfires burning nearly 97 hectares in the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

There are currently two active wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

Currently, both wildfires that are active in the Grande Prairie Forest Area are classified as under control (UC). This indicates that these wildfires have been completely contained and will soon be extinguished. These wildfires do not threaten any community at this time and was determined to be caused by lightning. To learn more about the classification of wildfires, please click here.

For the latest information on wildfires check out the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

Bow Hunting began August 25

Keep these tips in mind to be prepared and avoid the dangers of wildfires while hunting

  • Never leave a campfire unattended, always take the time to properly extinguish your campfire. Soak the fire with water, stir up the ashes and soak it again until no heat can be felt.
  • Hunters should always carry a shovel and water pail to put out any campfires they see left unattended.
  • Be careful with all motorized equipment, a build-up of dry grass and vegetation around the exhaust and engine hot spots can smolder and fall off into dry grass starting a wildfire.
  • Be on the lookout for fires. To report a wildfire call 310-FIRE or #FIRE on your cellular phone.

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OHV Safety

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 inadvertently start a wildfire when it falls to the ground. 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.

The wildfire danger is VERY HIGH across the Grande Prairie Forest Area. Lightning related fires occurring in the late afternoon are common during this time of year. We have been experiencing hot, dry conditions for a while in the province which can escalate the wildfire danger in parts of the province. This means that wildfires can start easily and spread quickly. If you see smoke or fire in the province, report it by calling 310-FIRE.

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Wildfire Information

Download the Alberta Wildfire app today and get access to accurate, real-time information on wildfires in your area. You can also find information on fire advisories, restrictions and bans across the province and much more all on your mobile device.

Available for Apple and Android.

Before heading out, please check albertafirebans.ca to determine whether there are any fire advisories, fire restrictions or fire bans in effect for your destination.

For information contact:

Emily Smith  | Wildfire Information Officer
(780) 799-9253

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Report Wildfires
310-FIRE (3473)
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