FOG BLOG ATLANTIC LOG: FIRE NEAR HALIFAX COULD PICK UP AMID MANY BURN BAN INFRACTIONS!

Official says Halifax-area wildfire could pick up again in coming hours Continued reports of people breaking burn ban, mayor says, including using propane torch on leaves Firefighters are facing a potentially dicey Thursday afternoon and evening as a 837-hectare wildfire in a Halifax suburb burns for a fourth day, one wh

ere temperatures soared above 30C.

While the fire impacting communities in Upper Tantallon, Hammonds Plains and Pockwock is now 50 per cent contained, a Department of Natural Resources official said the late afternoon and early evening is when the fire tends to pick up.

"We haven't hit those magic hours," Dave Steeves told reporters in a 3 p.m. update. "We'll just have to wait and see where the environment takes us today."

Steeves said earlier in the day that much of the focus was on protecting structures. He noted the region is in another "crossover" situation, which is when relative humidity levels get close to the forecasted temperature and are combined with wind speeds of 30 km/h or greater. He said that "lends itself to extreme fire situations and spotting potential."

He said he's hoping rain in the forecast later this week will help.

Officials will provide another update on the Halifax-area fires at 5 p.m. There was also a fire reported at the Waegwoltic Club in south-end Halifax and an active fire in Fall River. Propane torch and bonfire reports

Despite the hot and dry weather conditions, Halifax Mayor Mike Savage said Thursday afternoon there are reports of people breaking the provincewide burn ban in the last 12 hours, including someone burning leaves with a propane torch and another person starting a bonfire.

"This is a clear violation of the no-stupid policy," Savage said in an update with reporters at 3 p.m. "Don't do it."

Savage said there is "absolutely no reason" for people to be burning or flicking cigarettes outside.

Keeping indoor air safe

The provincewide fine for violating the current burn ban was increased this week to $25,000 from $237.50. Premier Tim Houston told reporters Thursday afternoon that he wasn't aware of any fines related to the burn ban being issued yet.

Nova Scotia Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Robert Strang emphasized safety when it comes to smoke exposure. He said if you can see it or smell it, the air quality is being negatively affected.

Strang advised people to avoid doing strenuous activities outside. He said people who live close to the fires should keep their windows and doors closed as much as possible.

Air conditioners are safe to use as long as the fresh air intake is closed and the filter is clean, Strang said. He said heat pumps are safe because they don't bring outdoor air inside. Strang said anyone in need of specific health advice can call 811.