Mayor Jackie Clayton is urging residents to act responsibly and take fire safety seriously as the region experiences higher than average temperatures and dry periods:

"The province is currently under a state of emergency and experiencing record levels of wildfire activity for this time of year. As a result, we are seeing significant evacuations, impacts to air quality, and major road closures that are affecting Albertans across the province.

There have been reports of several suspicious fires over the past several days which is putting lives, property and public infrastructure at risk while pulling valuable resources from responding to critical needs.

Each time one of these fires occurs, vital resources are taken away from responding to wildfires, putting more people at risk.

A reminder that these acts of intentionally or recklessly causing damage by fire may be subject to fines or criminal charges under the Criminal Code of Canada.

We also remind residents that while we all want to go enjoy summer traditions like campfires and dirt-biking, that provincial fire and off-highway vehicle bans are still in place and may result in penalties if violated. More details are available at albertafirebans.ca.

Residents are encouraged to connect with their friends, family and neighbours to share information and education on how to stay fire safe, so everyone can do their part.

Information for residents on fire prevention and safety is available at cityofgp.com/FireSafe, and on wildfire preparedness at cityofgp.com/BePrepared.

The latest updates on the Dunes West Wildfire are available at gprep.ca.

Residents are thanked for their patience, understanding and cooperation as we all take measures to be fire safe this season, so everyone can have a fun and enjoyable summer."