May 15, 1998
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Minister reminds people to be careful in the woods this weekend

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, is asking all people to be careful in the outdoors this weekend and throughout the summer.

"Victoria Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer and the camping season in Newfoundland and Labrador," Aylward said today. "With the drier than usual weather conditions and higher number of forest fires in the province this year, I am asking everyone to be careful in the woods and to remind people that open fires are not permitted."

Minister Alyward reminded people that over 90 per cent of forest fires are caused by humans. This factor combined with the dry conditions makes for a potentially disastrous situation throughout the summer. "Something as small as a smoldering cigarette can have devastating consequences. Please be careful in the woods this summer."

The minister also wanted to advise people, that effective immediately, all burning permits have been cancelled for the Avalon Peninsula.

The minister hopes that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Victoria Day weekend, but again urges people to be careful with fires in the woods.

Contact: Wayne Martin, (709) 637-2416

              Bill Clarke, (709) 729-4181

              David Wells, Communications, (709) 729-6183

1998 05 15 11:25 a.m.