A fire ban that has been enforced on Prince Edward Island since mid-August will expire at midnight on Monday, as confirmed by the provincial government. Campfires for heating purposes will be permitted once again starting Tuesday, subject to property owner approval and compliance with local regulations. Environment, Energy, and Climate Action Minister Gilles Arsenault emphasized the need for caution despite reduced forest fire risks. The fire ban remains in effect at P.E.I. National Park, with visitors required to adhere to Parks Canada regulations, which initiated a fire ban preceding the provincial restrictions.
Islanders are urged to remain vigilant even as the ban is lifted and temperatures decrease, as there is still an elevated fire risk. Wildland fire supervisor Nick Thompson advised checking the fire weather index for the local area before lighting a fire. Precautions include ensuring suitable weather conditions, using proper fire containment structures, having fire suppression tools readily available, adding materials incrementally to control the fire, and completely extinguishing campfires before leaving the site.
Residents are reminded to monitor burning restrictions before conducting any outdoor burns and to follow safety protocols. Summerside’s Rotary Friendship Park is set to reopen on Tuesday morning after being closed since August 24 due to wildfire concerns. The closure followed a minor brush fire incident, promptly extinguished by fire crews. Campfires and Category 1 domestic brush burns do not necessitate permits, but permits are required for other outdoor fire categories.
