Islanders are being advised to use caution with all outdoor fires this holiday weekend says Agriculture and Forestry Minister George Webster.
“With the arrival of warm, sunny weather this long weekend many people are eager to burn off old grasses and wood debris,” said Minister Webster. “While conditions are still moist in most Island woodlands, grass fires can spread quickly damaging crops, livestock, buildings and other structures.”
Burning Permits are required for any outdoor fire from March 15 to December 1 each year, and burning can only occur when the Fire Weather Index (FWI) is Low and wind speeds are 10km/hr or less.
Dry grass is a highly combustible fuel. When combined with plenty of oxygen, warm temperatures and wind, even a small fire can quickly get out of control.
Burning grass is also harmful to the environment because it sends nutrients up in smoke rather than making them available for new growth, creates conditions for weeds to take hold, and destroys wildlife habitat.
Burning Permits are available free of charge from any forest district office. People are advised to check the Fire Weather Index before they begin any burns and to always keep water and shovels close by to prevent wildfires from spreading.
Fire Weather Index information is available from any forest district office, online at www.gov.pe.ca/forestry/fwi, or by calling (902) 368 4800 after hours to hear an automated FWI recording.