As wildfires continue to ravage parts of Nova Scotia, firefighting crews are working tirelessly to contain the blazes. Additional support has arrived from the United States, with 17 firefighters from New York and New Hampshire set to join the efforts on Saturday, June 3. Meanwhile, a 20-member crew from the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR) is returning from their assistance in battling wildfires in the Northwest Territories and will commence work on Thursday, June 1, wherever their expertise is needed most.
Barrington Lake in Shelburne County remains a cause for concern, as the fire continues to rage across 17,186 hectares of land. The reported size change from the previous day is attributed to more accurate measurement techniques. Over 70 DNRR firefighters and 40 volunteer and municipal firefighters are working tirelessly to bring the blaze under control. The firefighting efforts are supported by a helicopter, two water bombers from Newfoundland and Labrador, and eight airplanes from New Brunswick that disperse a mix of water and fire retardant.
In Pubnico, Yarmouth County, the wildfire remains uncontained, covering an area of 163 hectares. Eighteen DNRR firefighters and 10 volunteer and municipal firefighters are currently on the scene, alongside three helicopters aiding in the suppression efforts.
The wildfire in Westwood Hills, Tantallon, is estimated to be around 837 hectares in size and is still out of control. The primary focus at this stage is on containing the fire and protecting structures. The firefighting personnel include 52 members from DNRR, six from Prince Edward Island, 100 from the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM), and nine from the Department of National Defence (DND). Additionally, three helicopters are deployed to assist in the firefighting operation.
A fire in Hammonds Plains, approximately four hectares in size, is now 80 percent contained. Ten DNRR firefighters, 11 volunteer and municipal firefighters, and three personnel from the DND are currently at the scene. A helicopter is also present to support the efforts. Due to the fire’s rapid movement, HRM has advised residents to remain prepared for evacuation with a notice of 30 minutes.
The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) provides up-to-date information on comfort centers, evacuation centers, response efforts, and more at www.halifax.ca/ and through their social media account @hfxgov.
It is crucial for the public to adhere to safety guidelines and refrain from approaching wildfire areas. Operating drones over forest fires is strictly prohibited, as it can interfere with suppression efforts and pose risks to aircraft and first responders. The emergency hotline, 911, should only be called in cases where immediate help is required to protect health and safety. Non-emergency incidents related to the police in HRM can be reported by calling 902-490-5016.