Ban on open fires in effect

"The warm and dry weather we are experiencing has brought the fire weather index to high or extreme throughout most of Nova Scotia," said Rob Uttaro, Department of Natural Resources fire management supervisor.

"Without rain, the potential for even greater fire damage increases every day. A ban on open fires will take away one significant cause of forest fires."

The open fire ban is expected to remain in effect until mid-September, unless the province receives significant rain.

The ban prohibits setting open fires for any purpose in woods or within 305 metres of the woods in any part of the province.