Zombie fires? Why Nova Scotia’s dry fall could cause blazes to spark back up next spring

As we head into the winter months, the risk of underground fires, also known as “zombie” fires, is a concern for Nova Scotia. Brooklyn Volunteer Fire Department Chief Brett Tettanish recently spoke about this phenomenon and how the lack of rainfall this fall could contribute to these fires resurfacing in the spring.

Typically, underground fires occur when there is not enough precipitation to penetrate the top layer of the ground, known as the fine fuel layer. If a fire is able to develop enough heat, it can ignite the layer beneath the surface, causing the fire to travel underground and resurface in the spring. While most fires that start at this time of year would likely be out before the next fire season, there is a possibility that these fires can overwinter and reappear when conditions dry out again.

Chief Tettanish shared a recent incident where his department responded to a fire that had burned three feet deep into the peat layer underground. It appeared that a campfire had not been fully extinguished, causing it to ignite peat and roots below the surface. As long as the fire has fuel and air in the ground, it will continue to smolder underground.

To protect homes from the risk of underground fires, Chief Tettanish recommends moving wood piles away from the immediate vicinity of homes and ensuring gutters are cleaned. He also suggests looking into the FireSmart program, which offers homeowners a short online course on how to protect their properties from wildfires.

The importance of significant rainfall cannot be understated in mitigating the risk of underground fires. Without proper saturation of the ground, there could be extreme fire behavior in the upcoming fire season. Chief Tettanish urges residents to be prepared and educate themselves on fire prevention measures to safeguard their homes.

In conclusion, the threat of underground fires in Nova Scotia is a real concern, and it is crucial for residents to take proactive steps to protect their properties. By being aware of the risks and following fire prevention guidelines, we can reduce the likelihood of underground fires resurfacing in the spring. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.