07/18/2025
The Chance Harbour wildfire is the only fire causing concern at this time. It has grown in size to approximately 1,500 hectares. Three water bombers, three helicopters and a bird dog aircraft are providing aerial suppression and cabin protection. This work will continue tomorrow.
Ground crews installed a sprinkler system at the pinch point on the south and southeast section of the wildfire, closest to the communities of Jamestown and Winter Brook. There has been no fire growth in that direction.
All other fires in the province are being contained and are considered low risk at this time.
Those with domestic operating permits for cutting and sawmills are reminded that those permits are suspended when fire weather indexes are on Extreme. Please check the Forest Fire Hazard Map to determine the level of fire risk in the area. www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/public-education/forestry/forest-fires/fire-hazard-map/
All residents of the province are reminded that a fire ban is in effect across Newfoundland and Labrador. Open fires are not permitted.
We recognize there are some common questions people have about the fire ban. The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture has provided answers below to two of the most frequent.
❓ Can I have a fire in my backyard?
If there are trees (of any size) in your yard, or those near you, you can not have a fire fueled by wood. You can have a non-wood fire in a fully contained unit (e.g., a bbq) fueled by gas, charcoal or propane. However, we urge that you proceed carefully if there is something flammable nearby.
❓ What does forested land mean? Does the ban only apply to the woods or forests?
Simply put, forested land means land with trees (of any size). It’s not only forests. It includes any area with trees – yards, parks, paths, and greenbelts to name a few examples. Fires are not permitted if you are within 300 metres or 1,000 feet of a wooded area. For an easy reference, that distance is about five hockey rinks long.
Be safe. Things are very dry right now and a simple backyard fire could have serious consequences for you, your family, neighbours, and community.
(July 18, 5:00 p.m.)
