Ban on Open Fires in Nova Scotia

Open fires in Nova Scotia are banned as of noon Thursday, June 24, Natural Resources Minister Kennie MacAskill has announced. The ban will remain in effect until further notice.

"The forest fire hazard index is very high, and in some areas, it is extreme," said Mr. MacAskill. "Because there was little snow during the winter and rainfall has been minimal this past spring, summer forests are very dry. We have to issue the ban to protect the woodlands."

Mr. MacAskill urged everyone to adhere to the ban so the risk of losses can be reduced.

The use of barbecues and camp stoves is still permitted in designated picnic parks and campgrounds. Campfires are also allowed in approved fire grills in designated federal, provincial, municipal and private campgrounds.

So far this season, 255 fires have destroyed about 1,600 hectares (4,000 acres) of woodland across the province. Last year, 338 fires destroyed more than 400 hectares (1,000 acres).

Officials at the Fire Control Centre in Shubenacadie said considerable rainfall is needed before the high risk of forest fires is significantly reduced.