The NWT Fire service is warning of very dry conditions in the South Slave and Deh Cho regions, despite recent snow.
With warmer weather in the forecast, residents are advised to be careful with campfires, ensuring they are fully out before leaving the area. “Soak the ashes, stir them and soak them again. The ashes should be cool to the touch before you leave,” NWT fire instructs.
Anyone looking to do a controlled burn needs to get a permit from their local municipality, band office or hamlet. Permits are needed even outside municipal limits, residents should go to their local Environment and Natural Resources office to apply. These permits will be required until the end of fire season September 30th. “ Always make sure you have enough water and hand tools on site to put the fire out and never leave the fire unattended,” the fire service states.Â
Despite chilly temperatures and snow on the ground in many areas of the NWT, wildfire season officially began May 1st. Fire danger remains low in Yellowknife and the North Slave. For Hay River, the danger will increase to ‘high’ Thursday and to ‘extreme’ for Kakisa and Fort Providence.
To report a wildfire call 1-877-698-3473.
