My first reaction to the burn ban until October 15th was not one of surprise. Disappointment perhaps, but not surprise. It struck me as a heavy-handed, emotional response to a few bad actors who mess things up for the rest of us.
Then I got to thinking and realized it wasn’t actually enough.
Consider the sources of fire ignition in Nova Scotia:
- Burning debris:
- Malfunctioning Equipment (like overheated exhausts).
- Cigarette tossing (and similar carelessness).
- Arson.
- Lightning.
Some Options
Lightning, obviously, is a little challenging to control. We can ensure that conditions make it more difficult for remote fires to start and spread. So, some thoughts:
- Amend the Off-Highway Vehicle Act to include taking reasonable steps to prevent fires or, should one start, containing that fire. This could consist of making spark arrestors mandatory. It could also involve requiring each group to carry tools and water for fire suppression, as well as reliable communications, when heading off into the woods.
- Prohibit Fireworks Sales during periods when there is a fire or burning ban for over 30 days. The very precautionary measure reasonable to achieve fire safety is far too vague and subject to interpretation (what is reasonable).
- Tax Incentive to Support Local Firefighting Capabilities. This would offer rural residents a tax incentive if that property has a reliable water source that can be used to assist in firefighting. These locations would be entered into the province’s mapping software to help fire departments in replenishing tankers.
- Integrate the FireSmart into rural building codes. Establishing this reduces the risks associated with fires. Incorporating an incentive for rural properties to integrate the FireSmart approaches would further reduce risks.
Finally, rethink staffing levels in rural fire departments. This isn’t about simply looking for more volunteers. There are over 6000 volunteer firefighters in the province. There are only 800 career firefighters. When you move into the rural areas, most of these services are volunteer-based. Municipal oversight applies in this case, not provincial.
Just some initial thoughts.