Current Fire Danger Ratings
Burning Restrictions
2003 Bulletin Archive

Wildfire Bulletin #26

July 17, 2003 - 10:00 AM

SAFETY URGED AS LIGHTNING, TEMPERATURES AND WINDS INCREASE

WHITEHORSE -Yukon Wildland Fire Management officials are urging the public to be safe and responsible with any kind of burning today as high temperatures and strong winds are in the forecast.

"The expected high winds are a definite concern, especially with the extreme danger rating currently in Whitehorse," said Duty Officer Lorne Harris. "We have our crews on stand-by for the weekend and our resources have been pre-positioned to the districts of high concern."

Although currently at a low danger rating, fire management personnel are going to be closely monitoring Dawson City this weekend as an increased amount of campers are expected in the area for the music festival. Officials are asking anyone planning on having a campfire to be safe.

"Do not light a fire in windy conditions and never leave a fire unattended," said Harris. "More importantly, always make sure your fire is completely extinguished before you leave the area or go to bed."

It is also prime lighting season in the territory so additional fire starts are probable. Last night over 5700 lightning strikes were reported in the territory with the majority occurring east of Watson Lake. No new fires have been reported as a result of last night's lightning, but the public is asked to be on the lookout for any suspicious smoke and report it immediately by calling 1-888-798-FIRE.

So far this season there have been 53 fires in the territory. As a result over 5100 hectares of forest has burned. All but 8 of these fires have been caused by people.

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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