News Release
Update # 2 -Crews Remain on Site of Fairview Area Forest Fire
(Thursday, August 9/2001)-- 12 Noon-- Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency Service crews remain on site and continue to fight a forest fire in woods at the top of Main Avenue in Fairview.
The fire, which spread across an area of between 15-20 acres, is contained and crews remain in the woods, applying water and A-type foam (allows water to penetrate soil faster and deeper) to prevent flare-ups from hot spots. Because of the moss and other vegetation on the forest floor, the fire continues to burn underground in many areas.
Relief firefighters are being brought in on a regular basis and crews are being changed every two hours due to the hot weather. Firefighters will likely remain on the scene for the remainder of today and perhaps tomorrow, depending on conditions.
The ramp from Highway 103 inbound, connecting with Highway 102 (leading towards Bedford and the airport) remains closed to traffic and will likely remain so for the rest of the day.
Residents in the Dunbrack Street/Main Avenue area are reminded to keep their windows closed to prevent smoke from the blaze entering their houses or apartments. Those with bronchial or respiratory conditions, and who may experience discomfort or difficulty breathing, are advised to seek medical treatment immediately.
No residents had to be evacuated as a result of the fire. One firefighter was taken to hospital last evening, suffering from smoke inhalation. he was treated and released early this morning. No other injuries have been reported.
Incident Commander on site for the Halifax Regional and Emergency Fire Service is District Chief Donald Strachan.
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John O'Brien
Corporate Communications Officer
(902) 490-6531
(902) 452-3846 (cell)
