The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Tom Marshall, Minister of Natural Resources:

Start of Forest Fire Season is a Reminder to be Cautious Outdoors

Mr. Speaker, I’d like to take this opportunity to stand and inform this Honourable House about the official forest fire season.
The season began on the island on May 1, begins in Labrador on May 15, and extends into late September. At this time of the year regulations come into effect in the best interest of public safety.

We are privileged to use our forests for hiking, camping, and other activities, and it is our responsibility to take care of this tremendous resource. The official start of forest fire season is an appropriate time to remind residents to be extra vigilant when they are in the woods.

During forest fire season, a permit to burn is required, at no cost, for lighting outdoor fires for the purpose of clearing land or burning brush within 300 metres of a forest. Permits and regulations can be obtained at regional or district forest management offices around the province. The lighting of fires for cooking and camping does not require a permit, but certain forest fire regulations must be followed.

The province has a toll-free number that can be used to report forest fires during forest fire season. That number is 1-866-709-FIRE.

In 2012, warm temperatures and lack of precipitation created ideal conditions for forest fires. Our fire suppression staff responded to 197 forest fires between May and September. It was a busier than usual season, especially in Labrador. In some instances new fire starts were reported daily.

Mr. Speaker our firefighters, permanent staff, Incident Management Team, Air Services pilots and maintenance crews are to be commended for their tremendous efforts. We can help by being careful when we are enjoying our forest areas.

Thank you.

2013 05 07             1:50 p.m.