Forest fire danger to reach Extreme today

The hot, windy conditions will push the forest fire danger rating this afternoon to Extreme in Northeastern and Central/Southwestern Prince Edward Island and Very High in the West.

Effective immediately, under Section 37.1 of the Fire Prevention Act, open burning including campfires is prohibited across Prince Edward Island. This will continue in effect until sufficient rain occurs to significantly lower the level of danger.

Based on forecasts for continued hot, windy weather with no prediction of significant rain until mid next week, it is anticipated that the Western portion of the province will soon be in the extreme danger rating for forest fires.

The Department of Agriculture and Forestry encourages the public to report any open fires to 911 immediately.

“Prompt reporting of fires means that initial attack can often contain the fires while they are small,” advises Agriculture and Forestry Minister George Webster. “We appreciate the cooperation of the public and the exemplary efforts of all the volunteer firefighters and government staff who will be on alert while the index is high.”