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2008 Bulletin Archive

Wildfire Bulletin #5

May 16, 2008 - 10:00 AM

Increased Fire Activity Reiterates Safety over Long Weekend

Three new wildfires were reported in the territory Thursday in the Watson Lake, Carmacks, and Dawson fire districts respectively bringing the fire total for the season to nine. All three incidents were spot size and are now contained with full extinguishment expected today.

In Dawson, a small grass fire was reported near Henderson Corner. Fortunately the property owner who reported the incident was able to quickly contain and then extinguish the fire with assistance from crew in the area. The fire reported in the Carmacks district was a holdover fire from winter slash burning. This incident was more problematic to extinguish as the source burning was a chemically treated power pole which was producing more hazardous smoke. In Watson Lake heavy winds knocked a tree on to a power line in the Upper Liard area along the Old Alaska Highway. Once again this fire was quickly contained by firefighters.

Wind was also keeping volunteer firefighters busy Thursday with two separate incidents in Marsh Lake and Tagish as result of heavy wind activity and trees falling on power lines. Both of these fires are now out.

Meanwhile, as campgrounds open and Yukoners head out for the May long weekend, Wildland Fire Management would like to remind the public to be extremely careful with campfires and any other burning they may be doing over the weekend. Please remember:

• When building a campfire use a designated fire pit or build a ring of rocks at least three metres from shrubs, structures or debris, and ensure that all leaves, twigs and other flammable materials have been removed from the area.
• Always keep the fire under control and prevent it from sparking into surrounding bushes and trees.
• Never burn in windy conditions or when conditions are hot and dry and always keep a supply of water and hand tools nearby.
• When extinguishing your campfire, pour water on the fire and douse the site thoroughly before finally stirring the fire until there are no embers and the ashes are cold to the touch.

If you will be using the long weekend as an opportunity to do some spring cleaning remember that you must obtain a burning permit before engaging in any sort of burning.

Please contact your local district for information on obtaining a burning permit. For general information call 867-456-3845.

Wildland Fire Management would like to thank the public for their cooperation in reporting wildfires.

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For Yukon Wildfire updates, call 1-800-826-4750
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Current Fire Danger Ratings
Burning Restrictions
2008 Bulletin Archive