Grande Prairie Forest Area: Wildfire danger low September 13, 2019

The wildfire danger for the Grande Prairie Forest Area is low. Fall is a time of year when grass and fallen leaves will cure. Cool frosty mornings and breezy afternoons produce frost-killed vegetation that ignites easily and spreads fast. Although the area has received significant rain and the wildfire danger remains low. Large amounts of dead grass and other vegetation are becoming flammable.

bear on quad

With hunting season beginning, hunters should do their part to ensure they are not contributing to human caused preventable fires. Here are four things every hunter can do during the fire season:

PLAN AHEAD

Check your hunting area in advance and see if there are fire closures or access restrictions due to fire danger check AlbertaFiresbans.ca

BE CAREFUL WITH ALL FIRES

Whether a campfire, gas lantern, cook stove, barbecue, etc., all can quickly start fires in dry forests. Know the fire restrictions for the area you are hunting and abide by them. Even after rain or snow, forests can remain dry and flammable.

BE CAREFUL WITH ALL MOTORIZED EQUIPMENT

Did you know your ATV’s and farm equipment can start a wildfire? 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 blaze. Carefully check bearings for excessive heat and always keep your machine and fire extinguisher in working order. Parking vehicles on dry grass can ignite fires. Chainsaws, generators and other machines with gas engines can start fires. Use them wisely and within the rules of fire restrictions.

BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR FIRES

If you spot a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE. Hunters should carry a shovel and water pail in their vehicle and put out any campfires they see left unattended.

If you see a wildfire, report it! call 310-FIRE.

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer
Mobile: (780) 832 7235
kelly.burke@gov.ab.ca

Grande Prairie Area Update