Forest fire season is now officially underway on the island, meaning that residents must acquire a permit in order to burn brush, wood or paper outside.

Permits are not required for campfires, however, campers are urged to check the Forest Fire Hazard Map to determine the level of risk in each area of the province.

Forest fire season is in effect on the island from May 1st to September 30th and in Labrador from May 15th to the end of September.

FireSmart Canada offers the following tips to prevent wildfires:

• Maintain a five-foot (1.5 metre) non-combustible zone immediately around your home.
• Clean out and screen gutters to prevent debris from collecting.
• Use fire-resistant roofing materials on homes.
• Clean underneath decks and enclose them to prevent them from filling with debris.
• Place firewood piles away from your home.
• Trim grass and weeds.
• Regularly clean up fallen branches, dry grass and needles from the ground to eliminate potential surface fuels.
• Avoid planting woody shrubs or trees near your home.