Grande Prairie Area Update

The wildfire danger in the Grande Prairie Forest Area remains HIGH. Strong and gusty winds continue. Sparks from rocks hitting heavy machinery, dragging chains and welding operations, shooting guns at targets, sparks hitting dry grass are all high-risk activities.

This past weekend Alberta Wildfire has responded to wildfires caused by winter burning holdovers. These wildfires are preventable, you must check for heat and ensure they are fully extinguished. Go back to your burn sites and feel the ashes for heat and use hand tools and water to ensure that there is no fire burning underneath the top soil.

Report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE (3473).

Wildfire information

Since January 1, 2024, there has been 18 wildfires reported in the Grande Prairie Forest Area burning nearly 78 hectares. Of the 18 wildfires, 13 have been extinguished, three are listed as turned over to the responsible parties and two are under control.

There are currently five carryover fires from the 2023 wildfire season. All carryover wildfires are listed as under control and are being monitored by firefighters.

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A fire restriction is in effect in northwestern Alberta in the Forest Protection Area surrounding the communities of Valleyview and Grande Prairie and west of the Peace River.

Under this restriction:
- Existing fire permits are restricted, suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
- Safe wood campfires within fire rings in campgrounds are allowed.

Prohibited on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas:
- All outdoor wood fires.
- Fires fueled exclusively by charcoal briquettes.
- The use of fireworks and exploding targets.

Allowed in designated campgrounds on private and public land, designated day use areas and on privately owned land:
- Safe wood campfires.
- Backyard fire pits, charcoal briquette barbeques.
- Propane/ natural gas-powered appliances CSA approved or UL certified.

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.

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Fire Advisory banner

A fire advisory remains effect for the south parts of the Grande Prairie Forest Area due to dry fuel conditions.

Under this advisory:

Permits will be issued on a case by case basis
No heavy fuel fire permits will be issued

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.

Stay informed of fire restrictions and fire bans in your area by checking Alberta Firebans.ca

If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473)

The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve

If you live in Alberta, you have a role to play in making your home and neighbourhood safer and more resilient to wildfires. An estimated 90% of homes damaged or destroyed by wildfire are ignited by embers. By taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard, you can increase your properties’ resistance to wildfire. Check out firesmartalberta.ca for more information.

Fire permits

Before you burn it, get a fire permit. Fire permits help us to track what is burning on the landscape. If you're burning without a fire permit or outside fire permit conditions, your fire is considered a wildfire. Anyone living outside the FPA can contact their municipality for information about local fire permit requirements.
Albertans living or working in the Forest Protection Area of the province can request a free fire permit by contacting your local forestry office or using the new, convenient online Fire Permit Portal.

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

View a video fire permits about by clicking here

Wildfire compliance and enforcement

Alberta Wildfire relies on legislation, education and enforcement to help prevent wildfires and protect the safety of Albertans. The Forest and Prairie Protection Act is the primary legislation which enables the protection of the forests and prairies of Alberta from wildfire.

Wildfire preparedness

Learn what you can do to prepare yourself and others in the event of a wildfire. See Wildfire preparedness for more details.

There are several ways the public can help with wildfire response either through the Wildfire Reservist Program or contracting opportunities. The safety of Albertans is our first priority. If your community is under threat of wildfire, follow the direction of your local emergency services.

View a video How you can help with wildfire response.

wildfire app (2)

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

Available for Apple and Android.

To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard

During times of low to moderate wildfire danger, updates will be issued weekly. However, when the danger escalates to high or extreme levels, updates will be provided daily if fires are active and/ or out of control. Expect your next wildfire update on April 17, 2024, unless conditions change.

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 832-7235

kelly.burke@gov.ab.ca