The provincial government is imposing a fire ban as high temperatures sweep across Newfoundland and Labrador — and seven wildfires continue to burn.
Premier Andrew Furey announced the ban on Thursday afternoon, following a quick evacuation of Churchill Falls Wednesday night, after a wildfire — thought to be under control — made a dramatic shift toward the community.
Furey said the wind gusted as high as 70 km/h and moved the fire two kilometres in 45 minutes, which he called aggressive.
The fire posing a risk for Churchill Falls is approximately six kilometres away, on the south side of Churchill River, according to Elvis Loveless, the minister of fisheries, forestry and agriculture.
Assets deployed in Labrador
The fire ban is in place so the province can focus its efforts on getting the fire nearing Churchill Falls under control.
“The bulk of our assets are deployed in Labrador right now and as a result we want to make sure we don’t have subsequent, other threats that could dilute efforts in fighting the fire in Churchill Falls,” Furey said in a press conference on Thursday.
The deployed assets include the province’s four water bombers and several helicopters.
Currently, 40 personnel are dedicated to fighting the fire near Churchill Falls, which Loveless said is the priority.
Suppression activities will continue in the evening, provided it is safe to do so, but more support is required.
A request has gone into the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre for more aerial support, including two to four water bombers, helicopters and specialists like a fire behavioural analyst and ignition specialist.
Loveless expects those resources will be available Thursday. The province has also been in contact with its federal counterparts for available Parks Canada resources.
‘Just can’t risk it’
Loveless calls the fire ban an important cautionary measure to help reduce risk and support firefighter teams.
“I strongly encourage all residents to be extra vigilant when taking part in outdoor activities — as high temperatures as we can see out there today — high temperatures are forecasted for the coming days are expected to keep the fire hazard risk at elevated levels,” he said.
Thursday marks the last day of school and graduation weekend for many families across the province. In combination with the nice weather, the province is asking folks not to light any fires.
This includes fires in backyard fire pits, chimineas and charcoal barbecues.
Propane fire pits and barbecues are permitted.
The province also warns ATV drivers to use a proper screening or baffling device to prevent sparks from escaping. Riding an off-road vehicle in dry conditions could spark a wildfire.
Loveless advised that motorists should carry a fire extinguisher with a minimum of 225 grams of ABC-class dry chemical.
“We just can’t risk it,” Furey said.
Residents are encouraged to keep updated on the wildfires and fire ban through social media and the news.
To report a fire, call 1-866-709-3473.
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