TAKING ACTION TO PROTECT COMMUNITIES, PEOPLE AND FOREST RESOURCES

The Ministry of Environment has completed preparations for the 2008 forest fire season in Saskatchewan.

"Our foremost concern is to ensure the safety of communities and people and the protection of valuable forest resources," Environment Minister Nancy Heppner said. "Fire crews on the ground have the flexibility to fight any fire that threatens a community while ensuring that other areas of risk can also be addressed."

Human life and staff safety receive the highest priority under provincial fire management strategies. This is consistent with a "values-at-risk" approach for setting fire suppression priorities. Risks to economic, social, cultural and ecological values are considered in relation to the natural role of fire on the landscape and its resulting benefits.

"With close to half of Saskatchewan's wildfires being caused by people, it is important to encourage those who live in, work in and enjoy our forests to be careful with fire," Heppner said.

The spring fire season typically presents the greatest difficulty; the forest is most vulnerable prior to green-up and if hot weather is experienced, it can lead to fires spreading quickly. However, moisture conditions are favourable in most areas of Saskatchewan, except in the extreme southwest corner of the province.

Free burning permits are required for any outdoor burning project undertaken in or within 4.5 kilometres of a provincial forest from April 1 to October 31. In addition to burning permits, information on safer burning practices and reducing the risk of wildfire to buildings is available at any ministry Forest Protection Area Office.

To report a wildfire, contact the nearest Ministry of Environment office or call the toll-free Firewatch line at 1-800-667-9660.

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For more information, contact:

Art Jones
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5796
Email: art.jones@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-8452