The 2019 forest fire season is in effect beginning today, May 1, until September 30 on the island portion of the province, and from May 15 to September 30 in Labrador.

Under the Forestry Act, a permit to burn is required to burn brush on forested land or within 300 metres of forested land during this period. Permits to burn and copies of the Forest Fire Regulations are available at district forestry and wildlife offices. Failure to comply with a permit or condition of a permit to burn is an offence. Those failing to comply are liable on summary conviction to penalties as specified under the Forest Fire Offence and Penalty Regulations.

Residents are reminded to be vigilant when using fire. Extreme caution is advised relating to spring burning and use of vehicles or forestry equipment near forested land. Residents are responsible for ensuring safe conditions exist prior to starting a fire and are reminded to follow safe burning practices when burning brush or debris or having a campfire, and ensuring fires are extinguished.

Chainsaws, harvesting equipment and all-terrain vehicles (ATV) must be equipped with appropriate mufflers and spark arrestors to prevent sparks or flammable debris from escaping. When using a chainsaw or riding an ATV on forested lands, users must carry a fire extinguisher containing a minimum of 225 grams of ABC class dry chemical.

To report a wildfire, please call 1-866-709-FIRE (3473). For more information, please visit www.faa.gov.nl.ca/forestry/forest_fires/

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Media contact
Linda Skinner
Fisheries and Land Resources
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca