So far this year, Nova Scotia has seen around 100 wildfires reported across the province, which is more than double the number we had this time last year, says Minister of Natural Resources, Tory Rushton.
In a statement, Rushton says this statistic includes the significant fire near Mooseland Road in Halifax County where crews are working hard to manage the blaze and evacuate residents. He adds that conditions are becoming drier, so the risk of new wildfire activity is increasing.
During wildfire risk season, there is no domestic brush burning or campfires allowed between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., and Rushton wants to remind people to always check the most current restrictions before burning.
The fine for not following these rules is $25,000, and Rushton emphasizes that they are “in place to protect people, communities, and our natural resources.”
Rushton mentions that most wildfires are caused by people, meaning that many are preventable. He wants people to be cautious when having a fire of any kind, including disposing cigarettes or cannabis products.
The public is asked to report any wildfire or person violating burn restrictions.
