Back to SearchCounty of Grande Prairie Upgrades Fire Advisory to Fire Restriction
Effective at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, the County of Grande Prairie Regional Fire Service has issued a Fire Restriction for the entire County, along with the towns of Beaverlodge, Sexsmith and Wembley.
The Fire Restriction replaces the former Fire Advisory issued on March 15. The restriction will be in effect due to extremely dry conditions and a lack of rainfall in the region. The County Regional Fire Service crews have been busy fighting brush fires and have responded to over 14 calls in the County over the last 10 days.
“Due to the continued dry conditions and lack of precipitation in the region, there is an increase in fire hazards, and we are asking residents to take all proper precautions and stay informed of fire restrictions” says County Fire Chief Trevor Grant.
Permitted burning is restricted to approved recreational fire pits, approved burn barrels and propane fired appliances (barbecues, smokers and fire pits).
Those who have an approved permit must follow permit guidelines and safe burning practices, including always remaining on site until burning is complete. Residents are reminded that burning is never permitted when winds reach, or are forecasted to reach, 12 km per hour or higher.
Residents are also encouraged to check any burn piles from this winter to ensure they are completely extinguished.
Details and any updates to the restriction will be available at www.countygp.ab.ca/fireban. View all current fire restrictions and bans in place across the province at www.albertafirebans.ca.
For safe burning practices, visit www.countygp.ab.ca/fire or contact Regional Fire Service at 780-532-9727.
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Backgrounder
Depending on the conditions, the County of Grande Prairie uses the following tiered system to temporarily limit activities that may lead to wildfires. Fire advisories, restrictions or bans can reduce human-cause wildfires.
- Fire Advisory: The fire danger rating has increased. Fire permits may be restricted. Safe campfires are allowed in campgrounds and backcountry or random camping areas, but this level is a warning they may be restricted if the situation doesn't improve.
- Fire Restriction: A fire restriction prohibits the use of wood campfires on public land but does allow wood campfires inside provincial campgrounds and private property in an approved fire pit. Fire permits may be restricted, suspended, or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
- Fire Ban: A fire ban prohibits wood campfires on public land, campgrounds, and private land including backyard fire pits. Fire permits will be suspended or cancelled, and no new permits will be issued.
Media Contact:
Trevor Grant
Fire Chief
County Regional Fire Service
780-532-9727