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County Regional Fire Service Downgrades Fire Ban to Fire Restriction 

Effective at 4:00 P.M. today, Monday, July 29, the County of Grande Prairie Regional Fire Service will replace its Fire Ban with a Fire Restriction for the entire County, along with the towns of Beaverlodge, Sexsmith and Wembley. This change aligns with Alberta Wildfire’s move to a Fire Restriction today. 

“The recent cooler temperatures and precipitation we’ve experienced over the past few days have been a welcome relief for our area and have helped with the active wildfires,” says County Fire Chief Trevor Grant. “However, we urge residents to remain vigilant and report any signs of smoke by calling 911. It's important to only burn when absolutely necessary, as the risk of wildfires still exists across the region with approximately 125 active wildfires currently burning in Alberta.”  

Under a Fire Restriction, 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 the 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 continue to check any winter burn piles 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. 

Stay informed with the County of Grande Prairie’s Voyent Alert system. Receive critical alerts for emergencies like fires, floods, and extreme weather, and stay informed about fire bans and restrictions, and day-to-day services.  Learn more and sign up at www.countygp.ab.ca/alerts. 

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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