News release

National Forestry Week, May 2-8

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

Two major forest fires in the past week in Shelburne County are very real examples of why it's important to practise fire safety all the time. But this week, National Forestry Week, there is an emphasis on being careful in the woods and learning safety tips.

The theme this year is Forest Fires: Handle With Care, and Natural Resources Minister Kennie MacAskill urges Nova Scotians to always think about fire prevention when in the woods or burning debris.

"One little mistake can lead to a big fire that destroys not only valuable timber, but houses, wildlife habitat and recreational areas," said Mr. MacAskill. "Good habits while in the woods or around fire are easy to pick up and tend to stay with people forever. I hope all Nova Scotians, especially young people, will take that extra effort to learn them."

Tips on fire safety include:

  • obtaining a burning permit from the Department of Natural Resources or local fire department
  • never leaving a campfire unattended and making sure a campfire is completely put out after using
  • extinguishing all cigarettes
  • calling the Department of Natural Resources at 1-800-565-2224 or 911 if you see a fire
  • not burning material if it is hot and windy

It costs about $3 million every year to fight forest fires in the province, but that isn't the only cost involved. In Nova Scotia the forestry industry is worth about $955 million annually and employs about 7,000 people. This includes logging operations, wood industries, and pulp and paper companies.

During National Forestry Week, personnel from the Department of Natural Resources will be visiting schools to teach good forestry habits, and to pass out booklets, posters and seedlings for students to plant.