Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
May 3, 2016
Public Advisory: Forest Fire Season Declared for Newfoundland and Labrador
During forest fire season, which began May 1 on the island portion of the province and begins May 15 in Labrador, the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency reminds people to be vigilant around outdoor fires. Residents planning to burn brush as part of spring clean-up activities should be aware of how quickly fire can spread beyond their property.
In 2015, 70 fires were caused by residents in Newfoundland and Labrador, the majority during May and June when many people are burning brush which resulted in damage to property and the forest resource. A large portion of these fires were preventable.
Reducing the number of human-caused fires is an integral component of the agency's fire prevention program. During spring, fine fuels, such as dead vegetation in fields and other open areas, appear wet but can dry and burn in a matter of hours when conditions change. These materials play a role in most fires responded to early in the forest fire season because they ignite easily and can spread fire quickly.
A permit to burn is required under the Forestry Act and can be obtained at no cost at regional or district forest management offices throughout the province. The lighting of fires for cooking and camping does not require a permit, but certain forest fire regulations must be followed.
A toll-free number is available to report forest fires during forest fire season. The number is 1-866-709-FIRE (3473).
Information on the forest fire regulations is at: www.assembly.nl.ca/Legislation/sr/regulations/rc960010.htm 
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Information on the forest fire season is at: www.faa.gov.nl.ca/forestry/forest_fires/index.html
The season ends September 30 on the island and in Labrador.
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Media contact:
| Tansy Mundon
Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development Forestry and Agrifoods Agency 709-729-4570, 693-1865 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca |
2016 05 03 2:35 p.m.