The following is an Op-Ed from Premier Tim Houston sent out to media across N.S.
Fires can start in so many ways. An accidental spark. A dropped cigarette butt. A fire not fully extinguished.
Any of these scenarios could result in catastrophic consequences for our province.
Now is the time for all Nova Scotians to work together to keep our firefighters, and each other, safe.
We are seeing fire activity across the province. While trying to get large fires under control, our firefighters are being called to new fires every day.
Conditions are tinder dry – drier than they were during the devastating fires in 2023. These conditions make it harder to get fires under control and out.
Our firefighters are stretched very thin. They are giving their all. Risking their health to keep all of us safe.
It’s up to the rest of us to support them.
I get that people want to go for a hike or walk their dog in the woods. But how would you like to get stuck in the woods while there is a fire burning around you?
Be smart. Treat this situation with seriousness.
It’s so easy for a fire to start. But Nova Scotians are good at stepping up. It’s the Bluenoser spirit.
And we’re asking everyone – Nova Scotians and visitors, industry – to do just that. Act responsibly and abide by the bans in place.
Stay out of the way of firefighting efforts. Keep your drones away from the fires. Get your boats off the water if you know it’s being used to fight them. Stay out of the area and let the firefighters do their work.
The restrictions aren’t fun, but they are necessary.
We know that eventually we will get the rain we need and at that time we’ll all be able to breathe easier.
Until then, I ask all Nova Scotians to the right thing for our families, our neighbours and for our heroic firefighters.
Let’s work together to keep everyone safe.
Premier Tim Houston.