In one of the driest years on record,
57 forest fires have struck the James Bay area north of the Broadback River so far this season.
Fifteen blazes have been put out and firefighters have contained or brought under control another 16.
Twenty-eight other fires are being observed from a distance and pose no danger at the moment.
The blazes range in size from one 100 km north of LG-3 that covers 25,000 hectares to a 9-hectare flare-up 16 km southeast of kilometre 381.
“This is the driest year I ever saw,” one fire official told The Nation. He advised Crees not to burn shrubs around their camps this season. Also, when starting a fire, he says make sure to clean the surroundings of all dead wood and vegetation. Never leave a fire unwatched and don’t make it bigger than necessary. Make sure it’s out when you leave.
Fire officials advise you to avoid smoking in the forest while moving. Dispose of matches and butts in a safe place. Also, never toss them out a vehicle.
Other big fires have been reported 23 km north of Albanel Post (18,000 hectares); between 50 and 90 km north of Chisasibi (3,000 ha.); 60 km southeast of Waskaganish (7,800 ha.); at Lake Nitchicun (800 ha.); and between km 121 and 134 on the road to LG-4 (3,300 ha.)
