(Grande Prairie, Alta. – June 5, 2026) – A fire advisory is now in effect for the City of Grande Prairie, including annexed rural areas, as of 3 p.m. on June 5, 2026. Conditions have improved since the Fire Restriction was implemented, but the area remains dry and residents are encouraged to continue exercising caution.
Permitted activities (with caution):
- 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.
- Smudge fires.
Prohibited activities:
- Open burning and burn barrels (limited – case by case, permit requests may be restricted).
- Fire pits without screens (never allowed).
- Fireworks (not permitted without written authorization).
This advisory is in place to reduce the risk of preventable human-caused wildfires.
Fires can start easily and spread fast, especially with elevated wind speeds over 15 km/h, which is common in Grande Prairie. Wind can spread embers quickly, turning a controlled backyard fire into a serious wildfire in minutes.
“We continue to see fires start from something as simple as a cigarette tossed along a walking trail,” said City of Grande Prairie Fire Marshal Chris Renyk. “It may not seem like much, but it only takes one spark in the wrong place to put homes and lives at risk. When we talk about fire prevention, we’re really talking about changing habits, not just as individuals but as a community.”
Residents choosing to burn within allowed activities must take extra precautions, 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.
The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve. Residents are urged to exercise caution and adhere to the guidelines to prevent the risk of wildfires.
Further information can be found at albertafirebans.ca or at cityofgp.com/firebans.