It was a busy weekend for volunteer firefighters and Forestry Division staff on the Island who battled a number of grass and land clearing fires that got out of control. Despite relatively low winds, soaring temperatures and sunny conditions have increased the forest fire index. The current forest fire index of moderate throughout the province invalidates most burning permits. The good weather forecast for the coming week will mean raising fire danger conditions until wet conditions return.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Eric Hammill praised the efforts of the many volunteer firefighters and departmental staff who ended up on active fire lines trying to protect the properties of others. "These individuals risk their health and safety each time they respond to a fire that is out of control," he said. "Even a simple grass fire can have tragic results."
The department is advising the public that fire fuels such as grass, leaves and shrubs dry very quickly on warm, sunny days. Fire permits are required before anyone can start a fire for land clearing, debris control, and other burns in vegetated areas. These permits are available from the Forestry District Offices at Southampton, Charlottetown (Beach Grove Road), and Wellington and at the Forestry Division headquarters on Upton Road. Those conducting burns should have sufficient fire control personnel, equipment, and water on hand for the type and size of the burn they are conducting.
Small camp fires in properly located or constructed fire pits situated so that they do not endanger forests or dry vegetation are still allowed without a permit but care should be taken to ensure sparks do not escape and start nearby fuels on fire.
Forest fires should be reported to the provincial forest fire service at 1-800-237-5053 toll free.