All Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are encouraged to use safe camping practices while enjoying time with family and friends during the Victoria Day long weekend. Throughout the camping season, residents should make the following fire and life safety practices a priority:

• Use a constructed fireplace whenever possible and preferably one equipped with a grate;
• If no fireplace exists, prepare a proper fire pit by clearing flammable materials such as leaves and twigs from three metres around your fire;
• Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished using water and never leave a fire unattended;
• Choose a campfire location that is downwind and away from your tent and belongings;
• If using fireworks, only use in a clear, open area in an approved location, and monitor wind strength and direction to ensure fireworks do not impact buildings, vehicles, overhead obstructions, or dry brush/grass;
• Store food in a sealed storage container to avoid attracting wildlife to the camping area;
• Check your cell phone coverage and know your location so emergency responders can find you in the event of an emergency; and
• Install and maintain at least one smoke alarm and one carbon monoxide alarm in RVs near the sleeping area. Depending on the size of your RV and placement of sleeping areas, more than one alarm may be required.

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Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Municipal Affairs and Environment
709-729-5449, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca