The recent warm weather has pushed the wildfire danger for the Grande Prairie Forest Area up to moderate. Wildfire Information Officer Kelly Burke says lightning fires are also common this time of year.
“It’s important now to be extra careful with fire and limit the number of human-caused wildfires. If you do see smoke or fire in the forest, please call 310-FIRE.”
Since the beginning of March, there have been 12 wildfires recorded in the region that have burned a total of five hectares of land. A fire advisory was lifted at the end of May, meaning burn permits are again being issued.
“Remember you must evaluate the weather at your specific location,” reminds Burke. “Get a permit and follow the conditions. You can be held responsible if a fire escapes the burn permit area.”
Anyone doing a controlled burn is also expected to watch for sparks and things burning that could lead to other, smaller fires. If the wind is more than 15 kilometres an hour, fires should be extinguished.