The onset of wildfire season is officially marked this weekend, as winter begins to recede and temperatures start to rise across the Halifax Regional Municipality and surrounding areas. This seasonal change brings with it important safety information that residents should heed to minimize the risk of wildfires.

While burn restrictions are maintained throughout the year in Halifax, additional restrictions are implemented specifically during the wildfire season, which lasts until mid-October. It is crucial for residents to stay informed about these regulations to ensure their safety and that of their property.

The Halifax Regional Municipality has provided several guidelines for those planning to have outdoor fires. One of the primary recommendations is to check daily burn restrictions before igniting any fire. This ensures that the activity is safe and permitted according to the current fire risk level. Additionally, residents are urged never to leave their fires unattended. This step is vital in preventing accidental wildfires that can result from a fire that has been left unsupervised.

To extinguish a fire properly, the city advises using water to douse the flames thoroughly, stirring the ashes, and then repeating this process until the area is cool to the touch. This thorough extinguishing process is crucial to eliminate any remaining embers that could reignite and pose a threat.

Furthermore, the city encourages residents to take part in the FireSmart program, a national initiative aimed at empowering communities and property owners to mitigate wildfire risks. Through this program, individuals can register to receive a wildfire risk assessment for their properties, thereby better understanding how to protect their homes and surroundings from potential wildfire damage.

As Halifax and the surrounding regions enter into this wildfire season, which officially begins this Saturday, it is essential for residents to remain vigilant and proactive. By adhering to fire safety regulations and guidelines, engaging with programs like FireSmart, and staying informed about burn restrictions, the risk of wildfires can be significantly reduced.

In conclusion, the Halifax Regional Municipality emphasizes the need for community cooperation and awareness during this critical period. As temperatures rise and conditions become favorable for wildfires, every effort made by individuals to follow safety protocols can contribute to safeguarding the local environment and ensuring the well-being of their communities.