Investigation into Cole Harbour forest fire continues, officials encourage people to use caution

On average, there are 250 wild fires annually in Nova Scotia.

On Sunday night, a large forest fire broke out near the Shearwater Flyer Trail in Cole Harbour, N.S. The fire is now considered under control but officials were back at the scene Tuesday, working to put out hot spots.

“We have the fire surrounded and contained at this point, 100 per cent, which means we have lines all the way around,” said Dave Rockwood, a Department of Natural Resources Forest technician.

“Our crews are moving into the interior and digging out any hot spots with hand tools and back tanks and some hose lines as well.”

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READ: Crews battle large forest fire near Salt Marsh Trail in Cole Harbour, N.S.

The exact cause of the forest fire remains under investigation but it’s believed to have been caused by humans. Crews anticipate being on site for some time.

READ MORE: Cole Harbour wildfire ‘under control,’ mandatory evacuation order lifted

There have been 111 fires so far this year in Nova Scotia.

The Department of Natural Resources says they monitor the weather at 31 different weather stations across the province. Officials say it’s getting dry out and if fires start, they could burn quite easily.

“When the weather is warm and dry and we don’t get a lot of rain, it means we have the potential for fires to start and take off. It doesn’t mean we’ll get them,” said Jim Rudderham, Manager of Forest Protection.

WATCH: Officials say a large blaze that forced the evacuation of homes near a popular hiking trail in Cole Harbour, N.S., has been contained. Natasha Pace has the latest.

2:03 Forest fire near Cole Harbour walking trail contained

While there is some rain in the forecast, Nova Scotians are encouraged to take precautions when outside enjoying the woods.

“Anything you’re going to do outside that could start a fire, don’t do that,” said Rudderham.

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“If you’re camping, that’s fine but make sure you check to make sure you’re allowed to have a camp fire or not. People say you can’t camp without a camp fire but you wouldn’t want to go camping in the woods without any woods either.”

You can get the latest burn restrictions in Nova Scotia at this link.