The County of Grande Prairie has received the Regional Fire Service’s 2024 Annual Report, which identifies several key difference-makers for the county to be mindful of ahead of the 2025 wildfire season.
The report highlights the “serious drought conditions” in the Spring of 2024 as creating the ideal scenario for the spread of wildfires across the county.
Some major impacts on the community last year were identified in the report as well, namely, the 2024 Kleskun Creek wildfire and the Jasper evacuation. The service also deployed resources to support partners across the province, including neighbours like the MD of Peace, Mackenzie County, Saddle Hills County, and the Municipality of Jasper.
Education jumped out as a significant priority for the county going forward, including the ATCO Fire Cadet Program, which officials say will provide students with a streamlined path to a career in firefighting. Additionally, the “Learn Not to Burn” program got in front of 660 children in 2024, and as usual, the service has indicated they will continue FireSmart education to prevent losses on properties and homes during a wildfire.
The report also gave an overview of prevention activities, permitting, operations, GPREP activation, and the grand opening of the new Regional Fire Training Facility.
