The Branch Volunteer Fire Department is making a public plea this long holiday weekend after members responded to the region’s third fire in just over a week.
The department is asking residents to harken back to the situation in Conception bay North last summer, which left families homeless and caused extensive destruction.
The department says fires don’t take long to spread, especially when grass and brush are dry.
They’re asking residents to be extra vigilant, especially in wooded areas, to avoid open fires unless absolutely necessary, make sure campfires are fully extinguished, and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately.
They also point out the hazard caused by tossing cigarette butts along the side of the road from a moving vehicle.
