The City of Grande Prairie is joining the county in the implementation of a fire ban due to increased wildfire risk in the region.
Effective at 1:00 p.m. on May 8th, the City of Grande Prairie Fire Department will issue a fire ban within city boundaries, barring the use of all outdoor fires including recreational outdoor fires, torches, displays, and open burns, suspending all fire permits, requiring all fires currently burning to be extinguished. The lighting of incinerators, burning barrels, wood fires, and fireworks will also be prohibited.
The use of natural gas, propane, and electric barbeques, fire pits, and heaters are permitted as long as they meet the manufacturer’s specifications for safe use.
City Fire Chief Mark VanWerkhoven says the ban comes as a result of expected hot, dry conditions alongside wind throughout the region.
“This fire ban is a crucial measure to protect our community and its natural surroundings,” he says. “Compliance with these restrictions is vital for everyone’s safety.”
Negligence or non-compliance with the ban could result in fines of up to $10,000 in administrative penalties, and all residents are asked to take the necessary precautions to prevent wildfires in the region.