The wildfire danger for the Grande Prairie Forest Area is now HIGH. Every precaution is needed to ensure no new wildfires are started, high winds and warmer conditions will continue to increase the potential for wildfires in the area.

When operating equipment, clear debris from moving parts, check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass. Keep watch of your surroundings and ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available. Equipment fires or work related sparks, friction and hot exhaust can cause even small amounts of dry fuels to ignite into a wildfire and spread easily.

A fire advisory is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area due to drying conditions and high wind.

Under this advisory:

• Existing fire permits are still valid.

• New permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, only for essential burning.

Prohibited:

• Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire.

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 advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.

Wildfire Situation

Since March 1, 2021 there have been 24 wildfires burning 52.5 hectares in the Grande Prairie Forest Area. Of these fires, 22 wildfires have been extinguished, one is under control and one listed as turned over to the responsible party. For more information on the current wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit wildfirestatus.alberta.ca

Fire permits

During wildfire season, you are required to have a fire permit if you plan on burning in the Forest Protection Area (FPA), with the exception of a campfire. To request your fire permit, contact the local forest area. Burning is not permitted during windy conditions. You can be held responsible if a fire escapes the burn permit area. Permit conditions state that lighting a fire with sustained wind over 12km/hr is not permitted. Any fire started in these conditions will be difficult to control. If you are found burning without a fire permit, you may be fined $600 or more. Anyone living outside the FPA can contact their municipality for information about local fire permit requirements.

County West / Grovedale - (780) 814-1648
Spirit River – (780) 814-1983
Valleyview – (780) 524-6576

Download the new 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.