Public Advisory: Wabush Cabin Owners Reminded of Dangerous Conditions

The Department of Natural Resources is asking the public in Wabush to refrain from returning to their cabins.

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary opened Route 500 to traffic from the Quebec border to Gull Island which is located 82 kilometres from Happy Valley-Goose Bay. The decision was based on the amount of precipitation (10 to 12 millimetres) received in the area this morning as well as the lack of fire hotspots identified near the highway.

The Department of Natural Resources understands people want to check on their cabins however the area between Route 500 and Southeast Arm along Route 500 has been significantly damaged by the forest fire. Access to the area of Blueberry Hill and Moose Head Lake cabin area remains closed.

The department is continuing its efforts to suppress the forest fire that has been burning since June 23 with 60 personnel, three helicopters, and an Incident Management Team in the area today to combat the fire. Two water bombers are available as required.

An outdoor fire ban for forest land continues in all Labrador regions. Outdoor fires are not permitted. Unauthorized burning, including campfires and brush burning, cannot take place in and around forested areas. Gas barbeques and CSA approved patio wood burning devices are excluded. All fireworks are included in the ban except for sanctioned firework displays conducted by town and local communities which have appropriate fire suppression resources on hand.

Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador continues to monitor the situation and is working with all Provincial Government departments and agencies, local governments, and private sector stakeholders in coordinating the effective exchange of information during the forest fire response.

The number to report a fire is toll-free 1-866-709-FIRE (3473), and is available in all areas of the province during the forest fire season. For information on forest fire activity, visit the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s homepage at www.gov.nl.ca/ or the Department of Natural Resources homepage at www.gov.nl.ca/nr/ and click on the Active Forest Fires icon.

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2013 07 11             5:00 p.m.