While the recent spring-like weather has been welcomed by many Islanders, Hon. Doug Currie, Attorney General, and Hon. Richard Brown, Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry, are reminding Islanders that the warm temperatures have also accelerated drying conditions for grass and vegetation throughout the Province and increased risks for grass fires.
During the recent Easter weekend, Island Fire Departments respond to 58 incidents; 23 were grass and brush fires and two of those fires resulted in the loss of out-buildings.
“Grass fires are unpredictable. They can spread quickly to wooden fences and outbuildings, and can endanger homes, property and the lives of both residents and responding fire fighters,” said Public Safety Minister, Doug Currie. “I urge Islanders to use extreme caution when conducting open burning, and especially want to remind everyone that a permit must be obtained before burning grass, weeds or any vegetation.”
“I would like to thank all the volunteers who responded to the wildfire calls over the Easter weekend,” said Minister Brown. “Areas of grass create good nesting and feeding habitat for certain species. Where possible, landowners should avoid spring burning. Dry grass is a tinder like fuel and acts very aggressively once kindled. It should be burned only when there are enough people and equipment to control the fire and when there is no wind.”
It is important to telephone and arrange for a Forest Service officer to be present when applying for a permit. Permits are available from Forestry District Offices located at Wellington (854-7260), Charlottetown (Beech Grove Road) (368-4800), and Southampton (961- 7296).
The Provincial Fire Marshal’s Office, a section of the Office of the Attorney General and Public Safety, also reminds Islanders that a special permit must be obtained from the Fire Marshall's Office before burning an old building or parts of an old building. For more information call 368-4869 or go to www.peipublicsafety.ca.