Three fires swept across P.E.I. Wednesday, prompting urgent warnings from firefighters as dangerously dry conditions continue across the Island.
Firefighters Warn of High Risk
Fire officials on Prince Edward Island are urging residents to remain cautious after battling three separate fires on Wednesday. With persistent dry conditions across the Island, authorities say the risk of fast-spreading flames remains dangerously high.
Charlottetown Woods Blaze Contained
In Charlottetown’s Beach Grove area, firefighters tackled a blaze believed to have been sparked by a discarded cigarette. The fire scorched about 1,000 square feet of wooded land before being subdued. Deputy Fire Chief Kent Mitchell said light winds prevented it from spreading further but warned that “right now it’s very flammable” and asked the public to respect the province-wide fire ban.
Wellington Field Fire Nearly Reaches Treeline
In Wellington, a piece of farm equipment caught fire in a freshly cut straw field around noon, sparking a fast-moving blaze. The flames spread quickly across 20 acres and came within two feet of a wooded area before crews from Wellington, Miscouche, and Tyne Valley managed to contain it. Local farmers also assisted by providing water and equipment to disk the field, helping suppress the fire.
Third Blaze Reported in New Annan
A third fire broke out near Cavendish Farms in the New Annan area later in the afternoon. Video shared on social media showed plumes of thick smoke rising from a grain field. Firefighters extinguished the blaze before it could spread further.
Why Officials Remain Concerned
Despite successful containment, firefighters say conditions across P.E.I. remain “perilously dry.” Mitchell emphasized that it will take several significant rainfalls to restore enough ground moisture to reduce the threat. Officials continue to stress that residents must avoid burning and safely dispose of cigarettes to prevent further incidents.
No Injuries, But Ongoing Vigilance Needed
No injuries were reported from any of the three fires, but the close calls highlighted the difficulty of fighting blazes in fields and wooded areas. Heavy hoses, difficult access, and shifting winds remain challenges for fire crews. Authorities warn Islanders not to drop their guard, as even a small spark could lead to another dangerous flare-up.
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