An abandoned campfire full of garbage left burning near Cameron River was snuffed out before it could pose a danger to nearby cabins.
The fire had to be dug out yesterday by multiple firefighters with an entire truck of water used to extinguish it, NWT Fire stated this morning.
Mike Westwick speaks for NWT Fire.
He stated: “In an area so close to many homes and cabins, this could have become a serious problem with the wrong weather. Never leave fires unattended – it is irresponsible and the most common way people cause fires in the NWT.”
Cameron River is 45 minutes east of Yellowknife and is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike.
Anger expressed by people on social media included this statement: “Only selfish IDIOTS would leave a burning fire in the bush!!”
There has been little change in the fire situation in southern regions of the NWT.
The 2024 wildfire season totals:
Total active fires: 9
New fires in the last 24 hours: 1
Total fires this year: 15
Hectares affected: 10987 Hectares