The City of Grande Prairie have issued a fire advisory for the city due to dry conditions.
The city says that the advisory is in place to reduce the risk of preventable human-caused wildfires.
The city says that due to a fire advisory being in effect, activities such as open burning and burn barrels (permit requests may be restricted), Fire pits without screens, and fireworks are all prohibited.
However, activities such as backyard fire pits with screens, propane and natural gas appliances (barbecues, heaters, firepits), charcoal briquette barbecues, wood pellet smokers and barbecues (with and without switch), indoor wood fireplaces and smudge fires are all permitted.
“Dry conditions mean even a small spark can quickly turn into a serious fire,” said City of Grande Prairie Fire Chief, Mark VanWerkhoven. “Improperly discarded cigarettes are a preventable fire risk, particularly in grassy areas and along trails. We’re asking residents to be mindful of how easily fires can start and take the extra precautions needed to keep our community safe.”
Residents are reminded to take extra precautions to prevent accidental fires, including: no burning if wind is over 15 km/h, always have a water source nearby such as a garden hose, bucket of water or fire extinguisher, never leave a fire unattended, dispose of cigarette butts safely in a proper receptacle. Never discard cigarettes on the ground, from vehicle windows or in dry vegetation.
The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
