Current Fire Danger Ratings
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2009 Bulletin Archive

Wildfire Bulletin #22

July 03, 2009 - 10:00 AM

Airtankers Action Fire near Little Salmon

Five new lightning caused fires were reported in the territory Thursday with the most significant being a 175-hectare fire burning in the Carmacks district near Little Salmon Lake. A member of the public reported the fire at 6:20 p.m. and two airtanker groups were then dispatched to the area due to the fire’s proximity to Little Salmon Lake.

“There are a number of cabins located near the lake and that is why our response was immediate,” said Duty Officer Dave Milne. “Fortunately the fire remains six kilometers from the lake and is currently moving away from the values.”

The airtankers successfully worked the fire late in to the night and today fire officials are reassessing the situation. The fire is located approximately 65 kilometres east of Carmacks and the priority is the protecting of the properties and values in the area. The public is advised that they may encounter smoke while traveling along the Robert Campbell or North Klondike highway.

The other fire activity Thursday occurred in the Dawson district with four new lightning caused fires reported. The only incident to be actioned was a small, 0.2 hectare, fire burning 53 kilometres west of Dawson City near the Yukon River. An Initial Attack crew from Dawson was sent to the fire and heavy rain last night did assist their firefighting efforts. The firefighters returned to the site this morning and are expected to extinguish the fire later today.

 The other Dawson fires are not being actioned as they are not currently posing a threat to any values. Officials will monitor the fires but at this time are not a concern.
      
A recent drying trend has increased the fire danger ratings across the territory.  The Carmacks district is at the extreme rating with Dawson, Haines Junction and Old Crow currently at the high rating. 
With the weather forecast calling for warmer and dryer conditions over the weekend, more people are likely to enjoy the outdoors and as a result, fire officials are urging the public to practice campfire safety.  Remember to douse the fire thoroughly and stir until the ashes are cold to touch.

Wildland Fire Management reminds the public that burning permits are mandatory to burn grass, brush or debris in the territory and that burning permits will be suspended if the fire danger rating is moderate of higher.

With the recent fire activity, there have now been 45 fires in the territory burning approximately 32, 239 hectares of forest.

Below: Aerial photos of the Carmacks 04 fire.

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Current Fire Danger Ratings
Burning Restrictions
2009 Bulletin Archive