The provincial government says heavy rain is bringing much-needed relief in ongoing firefighting efforts on the Conception Bay North Shore.

While no waterbombers are flying today because of the low ceiling, 74 ground crews from Ontario, British Columbia and this province are dealing with hot spots with the help of local fire departments.

Light and heavy capacity helicopters are ready to fly once the ceiling lifts.

While progress is being made, and overall fire activity is steadily dropping, the fire is still listed as out of control.

Water test kits available

The province is offering free well test kits to residents of parts of Conception Bay North which had been evacuated, but not directly affected by fire suppressants.

Those communities include Salmon Cove, Victoria, Gull Island and Burnt Point.

The kits will be available for pickup at the AYLA Centre in Lower Island Cove and at the Bay Roberts Government Service Centre in Coley’s Point.

Meanwhile, free chemical water testing of private wells in areas where fire suppressants were used is also available for residents of Perry’s Cove, Kingston, Small Point-Blackhead-Broad Cove, Western Bay, Ochre Pit Cove, and Northern Bay.

Residents in those communities can arrange for testing by contacting the Water Resources Management Division or by calling 709-729-2539 or 709- 729-1671.