Fisheries and Land Resources
April 25, 2017

Forest Fire Hazard Increases in Spring and Summer

The start of forest fire season is a reminder to residents of the dangers of grass and brush burning. Under the Forestry Act, the 2017 forest fire season will be in effect from May 1 to September 30 on the island portion of the province and from May 15 to September 30 in Labrador.

During this period a permit to burn is required to burn brush on forest land or within 300 metres of forest land. Permits can be obtained at regional or district forest management offices. A copy of the Forest Fire Regulations is also available at these offices. Residents are reminded that failing to comply with a permit or condition of a permit to burn is an offence and liable in accordance with the Forest Fire Offence and Penalty Regulations.

People should also be aware that the benefits of burning grass in the spring are largely unfounded. Rather than being beneficial, this practice is destructive and dangerous and increases the risks associated with wildland fire.

To report a wildfire, please call 1-866-709-FIRE (3473).

Quote
“Forest fire season begins May 1 and in the spring and summer the forest fire hazard around the province will increase especially under warm and dry conditions. Extreme caution should be taken when burning or travelling on or near forest lands. Remember, we all share a responsibility for the prevention of wildfire and for reducing the risks of fire in our forests and around our communities and homes.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources

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Learn more
Wildland fire management program and active forest fires - www.faa.gov.nl.ca/forestry/forest_fires/

Forest fire regulations - www.assembly.nl.ca/Legislation/sr/regulations/rc960011.htm external link

Public reminders for the forest fire season - www.faa.gov.nl.ca/forestry/forest_fires/reminder.html

Preventive measures to reduce the threats of wildfire - www.faa.gov.nl.ca/forestry/forest_fires/wfp/

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Media contact
Connie Boland
Fisheries and Land Resources
709-637-2923, 640-6409
connieboland@gov.nl.ca

2017 04 25                              2:10 p.m.