Province warns Islanders to be careful with flames as forest fire season begins

The Prince Edward Island government is reminding people to be cautious with outside burning as the wildfire season begins.

Fire precaution measures went into effect March 15 and will run until Nov. 15.

Environment, Energy and Climate Action Minister Gilles Arsenault is asking Islanders not to do anything to spark a damaging blaze.  

"Please don't feed the wildfires," the minister was quoted as saying in a news release. "P.E.I. had a few forest fires last year, and thankfully the damage was minimal.

"I hope all Islanders will recommit to taking the important steps to prevent forest fires."

Although out-of-control fires are rare in P.E.I., communities have been growing more mindful of them, especially after major blazes in neighbouring Nova Scotia in 2023 destroyed more than 200 homes and consumed 25,000 hectares of forest. 

Late last year, some North Shore residents gathered to discuss lingering risks from decaying branches and fallen trees after 2022's post-tropical storm Fiona, fearing the debris could fuel fires.

Precautions when burning fires

Permits are not required to light recreational campfires on Prince Edward Island, though the province urges people to check and obey municipal fire restrictions at all times.

Permits are not needed for domestic brush burning either, but fires can't be ignited until after 2 p.m. and have to extinguished by 8 a.m. the next morning. 

Other advice on remaining safe when burning brush:

• Ensure fires are small and preferably contained in a fire pit or other approved outdoor burning structure;
• Ensure you have resources near at hand when starting a fire (water, fire suppression tools, other people);
• Remain near the fire for a while after it has died down to make sure it doesn't re-ignite; and
• Keep a fully charged phone with you in case of emergency.

Islanders should call 911 to report a wildfire or a brush fire that has gotten out of control.