News Release Archive
NATURAL RESOURCES--NATURAL RESOURCES LIFTS BAN ON OPEN FIRES
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A ban prohibiting open fires in Nova Scotia woodlands will be
lifted at noon Friday, Sept. 5.
Natural Resources Minister Ken MacAskill said weather conditions
during the past few weeks have reduced the forest fire hazard to
low across the province, and the ban is no longer required.
"Department of Natural Resources staff and volunteer fire
departments deserve a lot of credit for their excellent
firefighting efforts during a difficult summer, especially the
month of July," said Mr. MacAskill.
"Fires were spotted quickly and dealt with effectively. Support
and co-operation by the public has been excellent, and I am
grateful for the respect and consideration that was shown for
both the ban on woods travel and the ban on open fires."
The ban on open fires came into effect July 14, followed five
days later by the travel ban. The travel ban was lifted Aug. 13.
A combination of factors, such as shorter days and cooler nights,
has eased what was a hazardous forest fire situation for several
weeks. Although there have been 19 spot fires since the travel
ban was lifted, less than a hectare of woodland has burned in
these fires.
Although the ban on open fires is being lifted, Nova Scotians are
reminded burning permits are still required for fires other than
cooking fires.
"Even though the risk of forest fires is low, I urge everyone to
continue to use care and caution while travelling in the woods,"
said Mr. MacAskill.
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Contact: Fire Control Centre
Shubenacadie
902-758-2232
Susan Mader Zinck
Department of Natural Resources
902-424-2354
ngr September 4, 1997 2:30 pm
