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Effective at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 26, the County of Grande Prairie Regional Fire Service has replaced its Fire Ban with a Fire Restriction for the entire County, along with the towns of Beaverlodge, Sexsmith and Wembley.

The recent rainfall allowed the previous ban to be replaced with a Fire Restriction. However, officials still urge caution this fire season.

“The recent precipitation is great news for the area,” says County Fire Chief Trevor Grant. “We are still asking residents to be vigilant and only burn when necessary, as the risk of wildfires still exists across the region.”

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.

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. 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