Preventing forest fires is everyone’s concern

May 22, 2024

Peri-urban environments are areas where human development meets natural environment. These are our communities located in, or near wooded areas. This proximity means that we expose our homes and neighborhoods to the risks of forest fires as much as in rural areas.

Combustion characteristics

Forest fuels, trees, shrubs, fields and artificial fuels all have different burning characteristics. Together, create unique complex conditions to start or spread of fire, either through embers and sparks, very intense heat and/or direct flame.

Main causes of fires near buildings

Around homes and in public places, it is mainly cedar mulch and other materials used in flowerbeds that catch fire, either lit by a cigarette butt for example, or a piece of glass. In very dry weather this can set fire to your home and even to a nearby forest. Very often, fires start along bike paths, near businesses or public entrances, along roads by unextinguished cigarette butts.

Fire regulations

Article 4 of municipal by-law number 34R2013 Edmundston Fire Protection is very clear, no one can light a fire or allow a fire to be lit in open air unless they have obtained a burning permit. However, no permit is required for an outdoor fire in a fireplace or in a non-combustible container, equipped with a fire shield, provided it meets the following conditions:

• the fire is less than 1 m in diameter;
• the fire is at a minimum distance of 3 m from any building, construction or property line;
• the wood used does not contain any toxic materials;
• the flame must at no time exceed 1 m in height;
• at no time can the fire be left unattended or disturb the peace of the neighborhood.

We thank you and we count on your cooperation to prevent forest fires.

Frontière FM radio interview with Edmundston Fire & Safety Prevention Captain Daniel Breau.

Links:

https://smartfirecanada.ca/homeowners/protect-your-home/

https://intellifeucanada.ca/homeowners/yard-and-landscaping/

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CONTACT: Fire & Safety, 506.739.2117