FOREST PROTECTION SECTION 

 Forest Fire Control 



During the 1963 fire season, 1,885 fires occurred, burning over a total of 

 56,138 acres. Compared with decade averages for the period 1951 to 1960 

 inclusive, fire occurrence was 45% above average and area burned 42% below 

 average. 



The highest fire occurrence period for the fire season was between June 22nd 

 and July 31st when 703 fires were reported. During the months of May, June and 

 July, 54% of all fires and 76% of the area burned were recorded. 



Fairly long periods with high to extreme burning index ratings were experi- 

 enced in all parts of the Province. The reasonably even distribution of fires and 

 area burned substantiated this fact. High to extreme fire danger conditions con- 

 tinued into November and the Fire Season was extended from October 31st to 

 November 11th. 



FIRE FREQUENCY BY CAUSE 



The percent of total fires for the season started by lightning was 6% lower 

 than the previous decade average of 23%. The percent of man-caused fires for the 

 year was consequently 6% higher than the average for the previous decade. 



PROSECUTIONS AND CONVICTIONS 



A total of 71 charges were laid under the Forest Fires Prevention Act and 

 Regulations, resulting in 65 convictions. 



FIRE PREVENTION 



The use of Rangers with special fire prevention vehicles was extended to 

 several fire districts during 1963. The Rangers make numerous fire prevention 

 contacts, visit schools, attend meetings, distribute prevention material and carry 

 out inspection. Vehicles are supplied with a mobile radio and fire fighting equip- 

 ment and are available at all times for immediate dispatch to a fire. This type of 

 program has been instituted in areas with a high man-caused fire incidence to 

 intensify public contact as a means of fire prevention. 



A 25 minute fire prevention film "Flames in the Forest", was produced for 

 the Department during 1963. The film outlines need for prevention and steps to 

 take that will prevent fires from starting. It is suited for showing in schools, to 

 adult groups and on television. 



FOREST FIRE DETECTION 



A visible area mapping program for all lookout towers was started during 

 1963. Mapping techniques using contour maps and helicopters were developed by 

 Department staff. 



A fire finder manufactured by the Federal Department of Justice at a peniten- 

 tiary in British Columbia was field tested. Results were favourable and all towers 

 will eventually be supplied with the equipment. 



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