Released on April 22, 2020
The Government of Saskatchewan is urging residents, farmers and landowners to take extra precaution to prevent wildfire and grassfire during the COVID-19 pandemic.“Every year, wildfires and grassfires threaten Saskatchewan communities and property,” Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency President Marlo Pritchard said. “During these extraordinary times, it’s critical that people take every precaution possible to prevent fire.”
Even simple measures, like making sure a cigarette is completely out or teaching children not to play with fire, can make a huge difference in preventing fires. With the threat of wildfire facing the province once again this year, anyone planning to burn within 4.5 km of a provincial forest is reminded to practice safe burning, obey all fire bans and to obtain approval from their nearest wildfire base.
Producers around the province are also being reminded to practice safe burning, obey all fire bans and fireproof their property. Anyone planning to burn should consult the local RM Office to verify that no municipal fire ban is in place and call the Control Burn line at 1-866-404-4911.
“As the provincial agency responsible for fire safety and wildland fire management, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency has taken extra measures to ensure we can protect the people, property and resources of Saskatchewan,” Pritchard said.
Extra precautions being taken include increased COVID-19 mitigation actions, adjusting training to reduce the risk to staff, and increasing fire prevention awareness across the province.
To learn more about the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency visit www.saskatchewan.ca/spsa.
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For more information, contact:
Christopher Clemett
Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5395
Email: christopher.clemett@gov.sk.ca