NLIS 2
November 4, 2005
(Environment and Conservation)


Public asked to keep environment in mind on Guy Fawkes night

Tom Osborne, Minister of Environment and Conservation, today asked the general public to keep safety and the environment in mind when holding bonfires this weekend to celebrate Guy Fawkes night.

�Holding bonfires on Guy Fawkes night is still a tradition in many areas of our province and we are asking those participating in a bonfire this year to ensure they clean up their area, especially our beaches, when the festivities are over,� said Minister Osborne. �We should always be mindful of the importance of our environment and do our part to keep it clean at all times, including events like Guy Fawkes night.�

Minister Osborne reminded the public that it is against the law to openly burn items such as plastics, asphalt products, paint products, used oil, garbage from your home, and treated wood. The open burning of such materials is an offence under the Environmental Protection Act.

�We also encourage the general public to check with their local municipalities or fire departments regarding any burning regulations for bonfire night,� added Minister Osborne. �I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable bonfire night, and don�t forget to keep our environment clean!�

Meanwhile, the Fire Commissioner�s Office offers the following tips for bonfire night:

  • �Permissible� fires should be located on a gravel base, or in a container such as a barrel on a gravel base.
  • Fires should be located 8-10 metres from any woodlands or structures. Weather and wind conditions must be considered in selecting a location.
  • Flammable liquids should not be used for starting or accelerating fires, and pressurized gas cylinders such as a propane cylinder, should not be thrown on a fire.
  • Only adults should place or put material on or in the fire.
  • Persons should ensure that fire control measures such as the availability of a garden hose or containers of water are close.
  • Property owners should take measures to ensure sheds and other properties are secure. Combustible materials should be secured.
  • Once finished, the fire should be fully extinguished, utilizing water or gravel material.

Media contact: Sonia Glover, Communications, (709) 729-2575, 685-6612

2005 11 04                              2:15 p.m.


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