While British Columbia is in the midst of one of their most devastating wildfire seasons, provincial firefighters in Nova Scotia are waiting for the call to assist.
“We could be called for assistance at anytime too with our crews just like we asked for help last year,” said Jim Rudderham, forest protection operations manager for Nova Scotia.
Last summer, Nova Scotia saw multiple wildfires burn throughout the province, exhausting resources at the same time.
“Last year we were stretched to our limits and had to get extra help.”
READ MORE: B.C. wildfires map 2017: Current location of wildfires around the province
The Department of Natural Resources says so far the 2017 season has been quiet thanks to a wet spring and a somewhat cool summer. But they say they will be ready if the season ignites.
“We have our crews around the province all ready, all trained, all equipped ready to go. Our fleet of equipment and vehicles is all ready to go. And we maintain schedules so that we have a steady state of preparedness at all times.” Rudderham said.
Campgrounds a concern
Many of the wildfires sparked in the summer of 2016 were in provincial parks and campgrounds. This time of year is always concern for the owner of Wild Nature Campgrounds in Shubenacadie.
“In the tenting areas I am very strict on low campfires. A lot of time we won’t have a campfire even when it is permitted because of the wind. We don’t want to lose our woods or our nature,” said owner Willy Wild.
READ MORE: ‘Extremely challenging’ Nova Scotia wildfire spreads to 240 hectares
Wild encourages campers to camp safe.
“I think all the campers out there should have a good season and remember it’s everyone’s responsibility. It only takes one person to have a disaster.”
DNR also encourages outdoor enthusiast to play by the rules this summer to reduce the risk of starting a wildfire.
“You must check the burn safe website daily to make sure it’s legal to do so in the county you are in and safe to do,” Rudderham said.
You can check where you are allowed to burn in the province here: BurnSafe