July summary: Nearly four times fewer fires than usual

July summary: Nearly four times fewer fires than usual

The fire season in the Quebec region is quiet compared to the Canadian Prairies; July recorded the fewest fires in a decade, roughly four times lower than usual. In intensive protection zones (IPZs), SOPFEU documented 18 fires that affected 2 hectares (ha) of forest over the last month. The average for the previous 10 years is 67 fires that harm 1,116 (ha) in July. It should be emphasized that only one fire occurred in a northern protection zone (ZP), compared to an average of 37 fires over the previous ten years.

Increased public awareness of the need to prevent human-caused fires and the province’s sequence of frequent rainfall events throughout the month are partly responsible for the comparatively low incidence of fires. Despite a few lightning storms, these storms typically brought with them a lot of rain, which made it difficult for fires to start. Although some sunny spells and drier weather were noted, no large flames resulted from this.

In July, there were no significant fires reported; all fires in the ZPI were contained before they spread to a size of one hectare. Human negligence remained the cause of most fires, but some of the reasons were more common than others. Smoking materials were responsible for 17% of last month’s fires, while campfires that expanded out of control or were inadequately extinguished were responsible for 22%. One fire also resulted from forestry operations, an off-road vehicle, and hot ashes from a fireplace.

Due to the situation in Quebec for the month of July, SOPFEU and the Quebec government were able to continue assisting other Canadian provinces that were still dealing with a substantial number of fires and damaged areas. Eight SOPFEU representatives and 200 forest firefighters were dispatched on two consecutive missions to Saskatchewan and Manitoba in July alone. Additionally, two radio operators have been sent to Saskatchewan. Lastly, it should be mentioned that on August 2, two SOPFEU representatives and 40 forest firefighters were also dispatched to Alberta.

To “prevent avoidable fires,” SOPFEU is urging the public to exercise particular caution in the upcoming weeks, as stated in its current advertising campaign. As many Quebecers begin their vacations, the group reminds us that over one-third of fires during this season are caused by outdoor enthusiasts. In order to reduce the amount of forest and vegetation fires, everyone’s participation is still crucial.