SOPFEU reminds everyone that it is important to celebrate safely

SOPFEU reminds everyone that it is important to celebrate safely

Be vigilant with bonfires and fireworks

As we approach Quebec’s National Holiday, National Indigenous Peoples Day, Canada Day, and the many summer festivities, SOPFEU (Quebec’s forest fire prevention agency) urges the public to exercise caution.

Each year, approximately 60 forest fires are caused by improperly extinguished campfires, while fireworks are responsible for about three fires.

Before lighting a campfire or setting off fireworks, make sure it is permitted in your municipality and check the fire danger level. Avoid all activities if the danger is high to extreme or if winds exceed 20 km/h (12 mph).

For campfires, keep them small, clear the ground around the fire pit, always have water readily available, and completely extinguish any embers before leaving the area.

If you use fireworks, choose a location away from wooded areas, clear of all combustible materials, and inspect the site after the activity.

Since the beginning of spring, 204 wildfires have burned more than 192 hectares of forest in Quebec, and 99.5% of these fires are attributable to human activity.

A simple act of caution can make all the difference in protecting our forests this summer.