This year’s lack of snow, combined with rising temperatures and windy weather has already created a few headaches for Island firefighters. Fire fighting staff from the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry and two fire brigades had to respond to several grass fires earlier this week. One fire in the New Glasgow area burned about two hectares (five acres) of grass. While no structures or forest land were lost, fire managers are concerned about the potential for much more serious fires this spring.
“Dry grass is a highly combustible fuel and burning grass has been the cause of many major wildfires over the years,” said Dan McAskill, Forest Fire Protection Manager with the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry. “There is very little snow in the forest for March, so as spring progresses, we may have potential for a very severe fire season this year.”
McAskill noted that many people believe that burning old grass is a good practice, but it actually removes critical organic materials in soil at a very sensitive time of year. As well, when combined with plenty of oxygen, warm temperatures, and wind, even a small grass fire can quickly get out of control, leading to the destruction of homes, farm buildings, cottages and forests.
Burning Permits are required for any outdoor fire from March 15 through December 1 each year. Permits are available from any Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division office. People seeking a Burning Permit must have the property number or civic address for the burn site, and they must also have adequate personnel and resources on hand to prevent the fire from escaping.
Burning can only occur when the Fire Weather Index (FWI) is “Low” and wind speeds are 10km/hr or less. McAskill emphasized that it is the responsibility of the permit holder to check the forecast and have accurate Fire Weather Index information before starting any fire. The Fire Weather Index is available from any Forests, Fish and Wildlife office, online at www.gov.pe.ca/go/fwi, or by calling (902) 368-4800 after hours to hear an automated FWI recording.