‘We want to do our part’: How a N.S. campground is ensuring guests follow the burn ban

There’s a fire ban in place across nova scotia due to the dry conditions.

It’s been hot and dry across Nova Scotia for July, which has prompted the government to implement a provincewide burn ban. This means no campfires, bonfires or brush fires.

It’s welcome news for Woodhaven RV Park in Hammonds Plains, N.S.

“After experiencing the wildfires in 2023 less than a kilometre away, looking back, it’s pretty serious and it was devastating at the time,” said Emily Siepierski with Woodhaven.

“We want to do our part to keep our beautiful province and campground safe.”

Signs have been put up around the park letting guests know of the burn ban, including one on the front door where guests check in.

“We do provide all of our guests with the notice that there is a provincial fire ban on. We do checks every 15 minutes in the afternoon,” said Siepierski.

Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency (HRFE) has been closely monitoring conditions.

“It’s hard. You can’t predict Mother Nature, but right now, we’re looking out 10 days and there’s no significant rain forecasted,” said HRFE Wildfire Mitigation Program Manager Kara McCurdy. “Having the ban in place is helpful.”

Reducing risks

Aside from following the burn ban, McCurdy said there are other ways residents can help reduce the risk of fires.

“Make sure you’re watering any plants that are really close to your structures because even dropping a cigarette or any hot material in those types of fuels will quickly ignite and spread to the structures,” she said.

“Refrain from using anything hot on trails and wilderness areas or provincial parks or federal parks, and if residents are outside enjoying activities, that they’re really cognizant of anything that might spark.”

The province said the ban will remain in place until the end of wildfire season, which is Oct. 15, or until conditions improve. The fine for violating the ban is $25,000.

During the provincewide ban, residents are still allowed to use non-woodburning devices, like charcoal and gas barbecues and gas stoves.

“A huge part of camping is roasting marshmallows, singing songs around a campfire, and we want to be able to ensure all of our guests enjoy their stay here, so we do have propane fire pits available for rental and purchase,” said Siepierski. “Keep those memories alive.”

Conditions across the Maritimes

Elsewhere in the Maritimes, burning is allowed in both New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island between certain hours.

“There have been some wildfire calls this year that follow previous years’ trends,” said a spokesperson with the P.E.I. government in an email to CTV News.

“Residents are always encouraged to use caution whenever they do any outdoor burning to ensure that fires remain under control.”

A spokesperson for New Brunswick’s Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development said the province “has been fortunate” not to have any major incidents so far. “However, our wildland firefighters have been busy deploying to help with wildfires around the country including Newfoundland and out west,” said the spokesperson.

Burn restrictions are updated daily at 2 p.m.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page