Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – County Regional Fire Service crews remained on scene of the Deer Ridge Estates Wildfire overnight last night and into today, scanning the area with a thermal imaging drone and actioning hotspots. The wildfire continues to be classified as being held.  

Fire crews were able to establish a good perimeter; there should be no opportunity for the fire to pick up and begin moving. Smoke will continue to be visible from hotspots located in the middle of the wildfire zone that cannot be accessed due to difficult terrain. Residents should call 911 if they see any open flame.  

Evacuees were permitted to return home at 7:00 p.m. Monday evening.  

Resources from Peace River were released last night. Crews from the MD of Smoky River and the MD of Northern Sunrise County remain on site, providing assistance to County crews.  

Today’s weather conditions are not favourable for fire behaviour given higher temperatures and expected windy conditions. There is no precipitation in the forecast.  

Residents were provided with the Re-entry Plan for the Deer Ridge Estates Wildfire last evening – the plan can also be found by visiting the Resources section at www.gprep.ca. The plan includes directions for addressing the red fire retardant dropped by air tankers on properties. This action was necessary as part of the wildfire response. 

ATCO equipment and trucks remain in the area as staff continue to conduct infrastructure repairs.  

A fire ban remains in effect for the entire County of Grande Prairie and the towns of Beaverlodge, Sexsmith and Wembley. 

A call centre line has been established for evacuees – 780-830-5002. The call centre hours have returned to regular operational hours, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday to Friday.  

All updates are available at www.gprep.ca and on the @GPREPalerts Facebook and X social media channels.  

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Media contact:  

Information Officer   
Grande Prairie Regional Emergency Partnership (GPREP)
Info@gprepeoc.com