Current Fire Danger Ratings
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2003 Bulletin Archive

Wildfire Bulletin #14

June 13, 2003 - 10:00 AM

CAMPERS URGED TO EXERCISE CAUTION

WHITEHORSE - Yukon Wildland Fire Management needs the public's help over one of the largest party-weekends of the year.

"We have grad parties and the Alsek music festival going on in Whitehorse and Haines Junction this weekend," said Yukon Duty Officer Al Beaver. "Both these districts have been placed at extreme fire danger rating for a couple of weeks now due to the warm and dry weather conditions. These areas are still extremely dry."

The total of 29 fires in the territory this season have burned approximately 1750 hectares. All but two of the fires have been caused by people. In an average year, people cause about half of Yukon's forest fires. "We are high above average," said Beaver, "and we ask people to please be careful with fire. It is imperative that campers drown their campfires with water before they leave their campsite."

"We expect a lot of people to be camping and partying this weekend. Therefore, it is extremely important that people take responsibility for the campfires they light," said Beaver.

If you plan on having a campfire this weekend, please make sure you build your fires in open areas, away from both structures and brush. Keep your fires as small as possible. Always make sure you fully extinguish your fire before leaving the area, and if you see a forest fire, please report it by calling 1-888-798-FIRE (3473).

Meanwhile, Fire Management personnel continue to monitor the Wheaton River fire and the three fires burning east of Kusawa Lake. Carcross, Tagish, Whitehorse and Marsh Lake residents can continue to see smoke emitting from these fires.

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For Yukon Wildfire updates, call 1-800-826-4750
Report Wildfires - 1-888-798-FIRE (3473)

Current Fire Danger Ratings
Burning Restrictions
2003 Bulletin Archive