Minister comments on forest fire situation

The Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, Rick Woodford, is asking all users of our outdoor resources to be extremely careful when in or near the woods due to a high to extreme forest fire index in most areas of the province. "There are a number of forest fires ongoing throughout the province and the dry hot weather we�ve been experiencing is expected to continue for the next several days. We are therefore asking the general public, the woods industry, and other users of our resource to be cautious and do their part in helping prevent forest fires. "

The minister said the fire index in Labrador has reached record highs and a number of lighting fire strikes are expected as a low pressure crosses western and central Labrador.

"A fire is currently burning out of control in the Port Hope Simpson area, which has placed a heavy burden on the Labrador fire fighting capacity. Also, there are two major fires burning on the Northern Peninsula, one fire near the town of Bide Arm forced the evacuation of residents Monday evening. Air support on the Port Hope Simpson fire has been moved to the Bide Arm fire," said Mr. Woodford.

The minister pointed out that the department�s fire fighting resources are stretched throughout the province and added that due to an extreme forest fire situation across the country, there are no aircraft available from other provinces to assist if needed. In the meantime, the province has rented a couple of additional helicopters to assist in fire fighting efforts.

"Our complete water bomber capacity, consisting of six air tankers, is stretched to the limit and we also have several dozen forest fire suppression crews working diligently on the ground. We must also keep in mind that due to a very busy forest fire situation across the country other provinces are not prepared to release their waters bombers at this time should our situation deteriorate," said Mr. Woodford.

Minister Woodford said there have been 95 forest fires so far this season, the majority of which were human caused. "Given this fact, it is important that we ask the general public to be extra careful when using and enjoying our outdoor resources. We all have a role to play in preventing forest fires."

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183 or 685-6612.

2002 07 02                             4:05 p.m.