Provincewide Ban on Open Fires Lifted

NATURAL RESOURCES--Provincewide Ban on Open Fires Lifted

• ---------------------------------------------------------------Due to recent precipitation, and the forecast for additional rainfall, the province lifted the open fire ban today, Aug. 3.

"We encourage Nova Scotians to continue to use caution with any fire they light in or around woodlands," said Jim Rudderham, supervisor of wildfire management with the Department of Natural Resources. "It is still fire season and people should ensure they always have a means to control or extinguish their fires."

Nova Scotians who want to have fires within 305 metres of the woods require a provincial burning permit. Landowners should also contact a local municipal government office to see if any additional permits are required. If burning brush, doing so during the winter months should be considered as no provincial permit is required and burning conditions are much safer.

For information on wildfire prevention and winter burning, see the Department of Natural Resources website at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/protection/wildfire/prevention/prev.htm or visit a department office.

Forest fires can be reported by calling 911 or toll-free at 1-800-565-2224.