FAQ – Deer Ridge Estates Wildfire Evacuees

May 5, 2025, 5:00 p.m. 

FAQs: Deer Ridge Estates Wildfire Update to Evacuees 

For further assistance and the latest updates, visit gprep.ca and follow us on social media: @GPREPalerts on Facebook and X. 

1.What is the current status of the Deer Ridge Estates Wildfire? 

County Regional Fire Service is pleased to report that the wildfire is classified as being held due to the availability of air tankers and swift and ongoing ground fire crew response. 

2. When can I re-enter my property?

All evacuees are permitted to return to their homes as of 7:00 p.m. this evening, Monday, May 5, 2025. 

The evacuation order is lifted for everyone in the area within the County of Grande Prairie, as outlined in the attached map:
 

• Sunrise Estates and Sunrise Estates 2 subdivisions 

• Core 40 Industrial Park 

• All rural properties within the evacuation order perimeter, defined as everyone south of Township Road 710 to 27 Avenue (within Sunrise Estates), and east of Range Road 64 to Highway 40 in the County of Grande Prairie.

3. Will any fire crews remain on site?

Fire crews will remain on site throughout the night and will be operating a thermal imaging drone to detect and respond to any hot spots.  

 4. What can I expect to see when I return home? 

Expect to see red fire retardant on their properties due to air tanker drops which were necessary to protect homes and businesses from the wildfire.  

ATCO equipment and trucks will be conducting infrastructure repairs in the evacuation area over the coming days.  

5. Do I have to return home tonight? 

Any evacuees who wish to remain in their hotel for tonight may do so, at no cost. Evacuees are also welcome to return home briefly to view their properties and then return to their hotel for the night, if they choose.

6. Is there any additional information? 

Additional information will be made available in the coming days regarding the process to follow for fire retardant-affected properties. 

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 of operation are from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. An Evacuee Support Guide and an Evacuee Newsletter is available at www.gprep.ca. The newsletter is being distributed to host hotels. 

Any additional updates on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 will be posted at www.gprep.ca and on the @GPREPalerts Facebook and X social media channels.