A 100 hectare wildfire remains out of control. This fire is located approximately 15 kms south of Grovedale. Firefighters, heavy equipment and helicopters will continue their work towards containing this wildfire today. Overnight construction of a dozer guard has begun, this will help contain the fire and further aid the firefighters today. Winds are from the North West, we expect the fire and smoke to blow away from the hamlet of Grovedale.
During times of high hazard fires grow rapidly and become difficult to control. Residents and visitors are urged to be extra cautious at this time. Gusty winds and warmer conditions will continue to increase the potential for wildfire events in the area. Please take extra caution when working or recreating in the area. Strong winds gusting up to 40 km/hr are expected for today.
Concerned About Smoke?
Anyone with health concerns regarding smoke should check Alberta Health Services website or call 811 for 24/7 health advice from Alberta Health Link.
For a smoke forecast map, please visit Wildfire Smoke Forecasts for Western Canada.
Yesterday the Grande Prairie Fire center along with the County of Grande Prairie provided assistance to the B.C fire service to help contain a 20 hectare fire near Kelly Lake. This fire will continued to be monitored as our assistance has now ended.
Check burned sites for possible hold-over fires. During times of dry weather improper extinguished fires can flash back to life, especially during a wind event. Spread out remaining ash and probe the area for hot spots. Using your hand, feel for heat over the ash pile. If you see smoke or feel heat, the fire is still burning beneath the surface. Drench any remaining hot spots with water and stir up the ashes.
Remember to extinguish your fire by soaking the ashes and feeling for heat. To stay current about this fire advisory and all other fire ban information within Alberta visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Due to warm, dry conditions and current and forecasted winds, areas of exposed, cured grass pose a significant wildfire risk. As a result, a Fire Advisory is now in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area (FPA). Effective immediately:
- No new fire permits will be issued.
- Current permits remain valid, however please postpone any non-essential burning and follow the condition on the permit closely.
- Safe campfires are allowed.
This Fire Advisory will remain in place until conditions change or fire hazard subsides. Please contact the Grande Prairie office (780) 538-5560, if you have any questions about your permit. Albertans are asked to use caution when recreating within the Forest Protection Area.
Thank you for doing your part to prevent wildfires, if you spot a wildfire call 310-FIRE (3473).
For more information contact:
Kelly Burke| Wildfire Information Officer
Grande Prairie Forest Area
780-538-5327 (office) | 780-832-7235 (mobile)
