Current Fire Danger Ratings
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2003 Bulletin Archive

Wildfire Bulletin #21

June 27, 2003 - 9:30 AM

FIRE SAFETY URGED OVER THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND

WHITEHORSE -Yukon Wildland Fire Management personnel is asking the public to be safe and responsible when conducting any kind of burning over the holiday weekend.

"The forecast is calling for increasing temperatures throughout the weekend," said Duty Officer Lorne Harris. "We need people to be smart. Extinguish your campfires and make sure you only burn in the proper conditions."

Of the 40 forest fires in the territory this season, 38 have been caused by humans. As a result over 2900 hectares of forest has burned.

Firefighters and equipment are being removed today from the Eagle Plains fire in the Old Crow district as no smoke is visible on the fire that reached approximately 518 hectares in size. At one point the human-caused fire was within five kilometers of the Eagle Plains Lodge. However, favorable weather and strong work from fire crews prevented the fire's spread.

Officials are also continuing to closely monitor the 80 hectare lightning-caused fire burning four kilometers from Bitterman's Camp in the Dawson district. On Wednesday fire officials met with the miners and discussed the fire situation and the possible options. The mine is currently in no immediate danger.

On-going warm and dry conditions have increased the fire hazard rating in most districts and lightning has begun to enter the weather forecast regularly. "We are now in peak lightning season," said Harris. "So it is important the public be aware of any smoke and report any forest fires immediately."

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Current Fire Danger Ratings
Burning Restrictions
2003 Bulletin Archive