With hot, dry and windy weather forecast for this weekend, Islanders are advised to be careful with any outdoor flames, says Ken Mayhew, Information Officer with the Forest, Fish and Wildlife Division of the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry.

“With little rain in recent weeks, and the type of weather forecast for the next few days, chances are that the forest fire weather index will be increasing,” Mr. Mayhew said.

From March 15 to December 1, people are required to have a burning permit before conducting any outdoor burning. This permit is only valid when used under proper conditions.

Normally, when the Fire Weather Index is moderate or higher and wind speeds exceed 10 km/hr, the burning permit is no longer valid.

Burning permits are only valid for the materials specified on the permit. Garbage, old tires, plastics, treated lumber and other such materials cannot be burned legally under the permit and must be disposed of through other legal methods. As well, most Island towns and cities restrict or prohibit outdoor burning of any material, so these permits do not allow the holder to violate local requirements.

“I encourage permit holders to check the forecast and have accurate Forest Fire Weather Index information before initiating any fire,” Mr. Mayhew said.

Forest Fire Weather Index information is available from any forest district office, online at www.gov.pe.ca/go/fwi or by calling (902) 368-4800 after hours to hear an automated Fire Weather Index recording.