Grande Prairie Area Update

Grande Prairie Area Update September 5, 2022

Posted on Mon, Sep 05, 2022

GFX-HSB-WildfireDangerUpdate-VeryHigh.jpg

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

IMG_9255

Wildfire Situation | September 5, 2022 - 3:00 PM

BEARHOLE LAKE WILDFIRE

To the west, there is an active wildfire in BC, smoke and ash may be visible in parts of the Grande Prairie Forest Area. The County of Grande Prairie has prepared residents and land owners near the border that could be at risk. County officials will continue to monitor and asses the risk of this wildfire as it progresses.. There are airtankers available to action this wildfire should it be needed. The protection of Albertans and their homes is our number one priority. We are working closely with BC wildfire and the County to ensure Alberta is prepared for this wildfire. 

Smoke will be visible in the area. According to the BC Wildfire Dashboard, this wildfire is currently estimated to be 2,500 hectares in size and is classified as out of control. 

To see the projected smoke map and more, visit firesmoke.ca

There is currently ONE wildfire in the Grande Prairie Forest Area that is classified as under control. Crews are prepared to action any new wildfires and preparing should this wildfire progress into Alberta. 

Since March 1, 2022 there have been 63 wildfires burning nearly 97 hectares in the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

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

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 remains 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.

 


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.

Hunters_Soakit_2018

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.

WF_Social-images (2)

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:

Mike Kingsbury  | Wildfire Prevention Officer
(780) 832-7601

mike.kingsbury@gov.ab.ca

Subscribe to Grande Prairie Area Updates