New Brunswick Battles Forest Fires

New Brunswick, a forested and grassland region in Canada, is no stranger to wildfires. In June 2023, the province surpassed its 10-year average for forest fires, with large fires in the Bocabec and Chamcook areas. The dry, hot, and windy weather created a high risk for forest fires, and organisations like Quad NB, representing ATV users, took proactive measures by cancelling events and advising members to avoid wooded areas. New Brunswick has a history of forest fires, including the devastating 1825 Miramichi Fire, which ranks among the three largest forest fires ever recorded in North America.

The 1825 Miramichi Fire

The fire destroyed about one-fifth of New Brunswick's forests, consuming almost 16,000 square kilometres or 3.95 million acres. The blaze was likely caused by a combination of factors, including unusually hot and dry weather in the summer and fall of 1825, as well as outdoor fires started by settlers and loggers. The preceding summer had been particularly hot and dry, with no rain from July until October 8, creating ideal conditions for a large-scale fire.

The fire caused widespread destruction and loss of life. About 1/3 of the homes in Fredericton were destroyed, but the main devastation was 100 miles (160 km) to the northeast, starting from Bas-Caraquet. On the evening of October 7, 1825, the firestorm reached Newcastle, New Brunswick, and in less than three hours, it reduced the town of 1,000 people to ruins. Out of 260 original buildings, only 12 remained, and in the adjacent village of Douglastown, only 6 out of 70 buildings survived. The fire also destroyed other communities, including Moorefield, Napan, and Black River Bridge, while Chatham, Nelson, and Doaktown were spared.

The human toll was devastating, with approximately 160 deaths in and around Newcastle, including prisoners in the local jail. The total death toll was likely higher, as there were about 3,000 lumbermen in the forests at the time. Many residents sought refuge in the Miramichi River, along with their livestock and wildlife, to escape the blaze. The fire left thousands homeless and destroyed crops and seeds for the next year's planting season, leading to further deaths from exposure and malnutrition.

The communities affected by the fire were eventually rebuilt, but many displaced individuals moved to new communities bordering the Bay of Chaleur, including Campbellton, Dalhousie, and Belledune. The fire also marked the end of the mast-making industry on the Miramichi River, as the region's pine forests, which supplied straight, tall masts for the British Navy, were decimated. The 1825 Miramichi Fire remains a significant event in the history of New Brunswick, with various books, songs, and novels commemorating and retelling the story of this devastating blaze.

New Brunswick's forest fire protocols

Forest fires are a natural hazard in any forested and grassland region in Canada, and New Brunswick is no exception. The province has experienced several notable forest fires in its history, including the devastating 1825 Miramichi Fire, which ranks among the three largest forest fires ever recorded in North America.

To mitigate the risk and impact of forest fires, New Brunswick has implemented several protocols and procedures. Here is an overview of some of the key forest fire protocols in the province:

Burning Permits and Restrictions

New Brunswick has a system of burning permits and restrictions in place to manage and control fire activity. The Forest Fire Management Branch of the Department of Natural Resources issues Category 1 Burning Permits, which exclude grass fires. These permits specify designated burning times, typically from 8 PM to 8 AM daily, and eligible counties for burning. Residents are advised to check with their municipal offices for specific permit restrictions within city and town boundaries. Additionally, certain areas, such as the Tracadie Firing Range, have strict burning prohibitions.

Reporting a Forest Fire

In the event of spotting an unattended wildfire, individuals are instructed to immediately contact 911 or the nearest Natural Resources and Energy Development office. When reporting a fire, it is essential to provide one's telephone number, the exact location of the fire, a description of what is burning, the size of the fire, and whether anyone is fighting the fire.

Fire Safety Recommendations

During periods of high fire risk, organizations like Quad NB, representing ATV users, have proactively cancelled events and advised members to refrain from entering wooded areas. Additionally, the province's premier, Blaine Higgs, has recommended that residents stay out of the woods during critical periods. While New Brunswick has not implemented formal activity bans in forests, unlike neighbouring provinces such as Nova Scotia, residents are strongly discouraged from starting open fires.

Educational Resources

New Brunswick also focuses on educating the public about fire safety and prevention. The province provides various brochures and guides, such as "Dispelling Common Myths about Grass Burning," "Making Your Home FireSmart," and "Backyard Fireplaces," to help residents understand the risks and take appropriate precautions.

By implementing these protocols and promoting fire safety awareness, New Brunswick strives to prevent and effectively manage forest fires, protecting its residents and natural resources.

Forest fire causes

Forest fires are a natural hazard in any forested and grassland region in Canada, including New Brunswick. The causes of forest fires can vary, but human activity and natural factors often play a significant role. Here are some factors that can contribute to the cause of forest fires in New Brunswick:

• Dry and Hot Weather Conditions: New Brunswick experiences dry, hot, and windy weather, which creates favourable conditions for forest fires. The dry conditions cause vegetation to become dry and flammable, while wind can quickly spread flames from one area to another.
• Human Activity: Human activities such as outdoor fires, including those by settlers and loggers, can be a significant cause of forest fires. In New Brunswick, human activity has been attributed to some of the largest fires in the province's history, including the 1825 Miramichi Fire, which devastated northern New Brunswick. Even today, human carelessness and a lack of adherence to burning bans have been identified as factors contributing to forest fires.
• ATV and Vehicle Fires: All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and other vehicles can be a source of ignition for forest fires. In one instance, an ATV fire in Chamcook spread to the surrounding woods, leading to a major forest fire.
• Lightning Strikes: While less common, lightning strikes during thunderstorms can also ignite forest fires. Lightning-induced fires are more challenging to prevent and may occur in remote areas.
• Accumulation of Dry Vegetation: Dead leaves, branches, and other dry vegetation can act as fuel for forest fires. When this dry material builds up, it can enable fires to start more easily and spread more rapidly.
• Natural Causes: Some forest fires may have natural causes, such as lightning strikes or spontaneous combustion from heat build-up in dry conditions. However, human activity often plays a role in exacerbating these fires.

It is important to note that preventing forest fires requires a combination of proactive measures, such as adhering to burning restrictions and being cautious with potential sources of ignition, as well as reactive measures, including prompt reporting of wildfires and effective firefighting strategies.

Forest fire safety

Forest fires are a natural hazard in any forested and grassland region in Canada, and New Brunswick is no exception. In fact, in 2023, the province surpassed its 10-year average for forest fires.

To help prevent forest fires, the province has implemented a restricted burn policy, which only permits burns between 8 pm and 8 am daily. Grass fires require permits, written burn plans, and pre-inspection by a forest service officer. Campfire and burning permits can be obtained by calling 1-866-458-8080.

If you spot an unattended wildfire, it is important to call 911 or the Natural Resources and Energy Development office closest to you. When reporting a fire, be prepared to provide your telephone number, the exact location of the fire, a description of what is burning, and the size of the fire.

To help keep yourself and your property safe from forest fires, follow these guidelines:

• Create a buffer zone: Maintain a buffer zone around your property by clearing away any dead vegetation, leaves, and branches. This will help slow down or stop the spread of a fire.
• Choose fire-resistant plants: When landscaping, select plants that are more fire-resistant, such as those that are native to your area and well-adapted to the climate. Avoid using highly flammable plants, such as pine, eucalyptus, and fir.
• Keep your property well-maintained: Regularly clean your roof and gutters to remove any debris that could fuel a fire. Keep your lawn and shrubs well-watered and maintained.
• Create an emergency plan: Develop a fire emergency plan for your household, including designated meeting spots and escape routes. Practice the plan with your family so that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire.
• Stay informed: Pay attention to local fire warnings and restrictions, especially during hot, dry weather. Be aware of any planned burns or fire danger ratings in your area.
• Have emergency supplies ready: Prepare a grab-and-go bag with essential items, such as medications, important documents, and valuables, in case you need to evacuate quickly.
• Make your home firesmart: Follow the guidelines in the "Making your Home FireSmart" brochure, available from the Natural Resources and Energy Development office or online.

Forest fire prevention

New Brunswick has experienced several forest fires, including the devastating 1825 Miramichi Fire, which destroyed around one-fifth of the province's forests. Forest fires are a natural hazard in any forested and grassland region in Canada, and New Brunswick is no exception. To prevent forest fires in the region, several measures can be taken:

Firstly, it is crucial to obtain the necessary permits for any burning activities. A burning permit is required for grass, brush, slash, or debris burning in or within 100 meters of forest land. Campfires, cooking fires, and bonfires in or near forest land also require a permit and the landowner's permission. It is important to follow local municipal by-laws and obtain the required permits to help control and manage fire-related risks.

Secondly, certain activities are prohibited or restricted during the forest fire season. Smoking is prohibited while moving from one place to another in forest land. Work involving two or more people in forest land requires a permit, and firefighting equipment must be on hand. Power saws must be properly equipped with mufflers and accompanied by firefighting tools like round point shovels or fire extinguishers. Vehicles and machinery operated in or near forest land must have proper exhaust systems, and certain machines are required to have exhaust spark arresters installed.

Additionally, it is important to be cautious when engaging in activities that could potentially ignite fires. Forest fire officials discourage lighting grass fires, as they can quickly spread to nearby forests and harm wildlife. When burning brush, it is important to be mindful of the dry conditions and the potential for fires to get out of control. Following safety guidelines and staying informed about current fire conditions can help prevent accidental fires.

Furthermore, early detection and reporting of wildfires are crucial. If you spot an unattended wildfire, promptly call 911 or the nearest Natural Resources and Energy Development office. Provide your telephone number, the exact location of the fire, a description of what is burning, and the size of the fire. Staying vigilant and reporting wildfires can help ensure a swift response from emergency services, potentially saving lives and reducing the impact on the environment.

By following these precautions and staying aware of the fire risks, residents of New Brunswick can help prevent forest fires and protect their communities, wildlife, and the environment.

Frequently asked questions