Caution Urged While Outdoors

With the arrival of another weekend, Natural Resources Minister Kennie MacAskill once again urges everyone to use caution while outdoors, whether for recreation or at work. The forest fire hazard across Nova Scotia continues to be high to extreme.

"Our woodlands are very dry and the situation is being monitored daily," said Mr. MacAskill. "The risk of forest wildfire is high and no rainfall is forecast for the weekend."

A ban on open fires was put into place July 31, although the use of barbeques and camp stoves is permitted in designated picnic parks and campgrounds. Campground operators, at their discretion, can ban campfires at their sites.

So far this year, 284 fires have destroyed roughly 314 hectares (776 acres) of woodland across the province.

"Forest fire losses can be minimized through strict adherence to the current ban on open fires and if individuals continue to act responsibly," said Mr. MacAskill. "It is important that everyone use the utmost care and caution while in the woods."

Natural Resources officials at the department's Fire Control Centre in Shubenacadie say steady rain over a few days is needed to significantly reduce the high risk of forest fires.