Fire crews are continuing to battle a wildfire that broke out Monday afternoon in Nova Scotia’s Digby County, though the blaze is no longer spreading.
The fire in Hassett, near Weymouth, was around six to eight hectares in size as of Monday evening, but had grown to 80 hectares by Tuesday morning. An update from the province on Tuesday evening indicated it had grown to 111 hectares, and that estimated remained the same Wednesday morning.
“The change in the number of hectares from 80 to 111 does not mean the fire has spread – it is because staff have now been able to walk the perimeter of the fire and determine the size more precisely,” said a spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables.
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The department said the fire was being held, which means it’s not spreading further, but not yet completely under control.
As of Wednesday morning there were 29 DNRR staff, 15 volunteer fire department workers and one helicopter on scene.
While there are no formal evacuation orders in place, the RCMP confirmed it evacuated six homes in the area.
DNRR “strongly” encourages residents to check and follow the daily burn restrictions.
“Nova Scotians can do their part to prevent wildfire by being mindful around their homes and structures on their properties, ensuring enough clearance to reduce the risk of fire spread from forest to home,” the statement said.
The Havelock Wesleyan Church was being used as a command centre, and was accepting donations of food and water for firefighters.
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