Due to hot, dry conditions, there is a ban on open fires effective immediately across the entire province.
The ban was put in place today through a proclamation under the Forests Act. The fine for violating the ban is $25,000. The ban will remain in place until conditions improve. Learn more: Provincewide Burn Ban in Effect | Government of Nova Scotia News Releases
The Province is restricting travel and activities in the woods because continued hot, dry conditions have greatly increased the risk of wildfires.
The restrictions, effective as of 4 p.m. today, August 5, include:
These and other measures are in place on provincial Crown and private land until October 15 or until conditions allow them to be lifted. The fine for violating the restrictions is $25,000.
Forestry, mining and any commercial activity on provincial Crown lands are also restricted. People who conduct this kind of activity can apply for a permit at their local Department of Natural Resources office.
While the restrictions are in place, people can still access beaches and parks, but not the trail systems. Private landowners are free to use their own properties but cannot host others to use wooded areas of their properties.
Attention & Reminder to Residents:
The Province of Nova Scotia has announced it is restricting travel and activities in the woods because continued hot, dry conditions have greatly increased the risk of wildfires.
For more info: Travel, Activities in Woods Restricted to Prevent Wildfires | Government of Nova Scotia News Releases
We are at extreme risk of wildfire due to the hot dry conditions and no rain in sight. We need to stop wildfires before they start. Travel and activities in the woods are restricted and there is a ban on open fires across the entire province. The fine for violating the restrictions is $25,000.
If you have questions, please contact your local Department of Natural Resources office: Department of Natural Resources and Renewables
Be prepared: Have an evacuation plan in place and a grab-and-go bag ready in the event of a wildfire emergency.
Préparez-vous : Préparez un plan d’évacuation et un sac prêt à emporter en cas de feu de forêt.
Please be patient, as some filling stations are subject to availability of members and fire station water supply.
As the Canso and Area Arena is under construction, please be mindful of potential hazards and observant of all signage. The Municipality thanks you for your patience and cooperation in staying safe.
If a wildfire threatens your home, you will need to leave quickly. Have grab-and-go bags prepared for everyone you live with.
Learn more:
You may notice the smell of smoke and haze in the air today. This is due to the wildfires burning outside of Bridgetown (West Dalhousie), and the smoke is settling across our region.
If smoke appears widespread or hazy throughout the area, rather than forming a distinct column, it is likely drifting in from ongoing fires and does not require an emergency call.
Emergency calls should be made if there is a clear column of smoke, visible flames, or a concentrated area of heavy smoke that appears local.
We understand everyone’s concern and wish for everyone to remain diligent and listen to the local authorities for updates.
If you smell smoke you can call the Department of Natural Resources at 1-800-565-2224.Stay safe.
