HUNTERS: TAKE CARE WITH FIRE

With dry conditions across much of the province, the Ministry of Environment is asking hunters to be careful with fire.

This fall, wildfires have been accidentally started by hunters who underestimated the dry conditions.

"Thankfully, these fires were quickly contained," Environment's Fire Management and Forest Protection Executive Director Steve Roberts said. "We are now in the peak of the hunting season and there are more hunters out. We want to remind everyone to be aware of the dry conditions and potential hazards."

Hunters should be careful with campfires and make sure that all cigarettes and matches are completely out before discarding them. Hunters should stay on roads and trails and avoid driving through or parking in pastures or other areas with high grass. The heat from a vehicle exhaust can be enough to start a fire.

Anyone who sees a wildfire should report it to the toll-free Firewatch number at 1-800-667-9660.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Larry Fremont
Environment
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-953-3245