Annapolis REMO Encourages Preparedness as Wildfire Season Begins

ANNAPOLIS COUNTY, MARCH 12, 2026 — As the 2026 wildfire risk season gets underway,
Annapolis REMO is urging everyone to take proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk and protect
their properties. Wildfire season in Nova Scotia official opens on this Sunday, March 15th and runs
until October 15th.

In 2025, Annapolis County experienced the significant Long Lake Wildfire, which required a
coordinated response from local fire departments, the Nova Scotia Department of Natural
Resources, Emergency Management partners, and municipal officials. The incident served as a
strong reminder of how quickly conditions can change during dry and windy periods.

Brian Orde, Annapolis Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO) Coordinator,
emphasized the importance of readiness. “The Long Lake Wildfire (West Dalhousie) showed us
that wildfire risk is very real here at home,” said Orde. “Our fire services, provincial partners, and
volunteers worked together exceptionally well, but prevention is always our strongest defence.
We’re asking residents to stay alert, follow burn restrictions, and take steps now to FireSmart their
properties.”

Residents living near wooded areas are encouraged to take simple FireSmart steps, such as
clearing leaves and debris from around homes, trimming trees and shrubs, keeping grass cut
short, and using fire-resistant materials where possible. Further FireSmart tips are available
through FireSmart Canada online resources and social media.

Jennifer Daniels, Annapolis County Fire Services Coordinator added that early-season conditions
can be especially dangerous. “While many people associate wildfire season with the spring, the
reality is that drought and changing climate patterns are increasing the risk throughout much of
the year. We all have a shared responsibility to stay alert, follow burn restrictions, and take
proactive steps to mitigate wildfire hazards in our communities.”

“With wildfire season underway, we’re asking residents to stay informed and follow provincial burn
restrictions,” said Orde. “Simple actions like checking the daily burn status, properly extinguishing
fires, and reporting concerns right away can make a significant difference. Prepared and informed
communities are one of the most effective ways we can reduce wildfire risk across Annapolis
County.”

The Province’s Check Before You Burn program provides daily updates on burn restrictions at
novascotia.ca/burnsafe or by calling 1-855-564-2876. If you see a wildfire, call 9-1-1 immediately.
To report illegal burning that is not an active wildfire, contact Nova Scotia Department of Natural
Resources at 1-800-565-2224.

For additional wildfire preparedness information, visit novascotia.ca or Annapolis REMO’s website
at https://www.annapolisremo.ca/knowtherisks/risk-types/wildfires. Follow Annapolis REMO on
Facebook for local updates and preparedness messaging https://www.facebook.com/AnnapolisREMO