A generator hums in a grassy field at the Lake George wildfire operations site in Nova Scotia, while a crew member lays out numerous hoses to dry under the sun. These hoses were recently removed from homes and infrastructure, where they supplied water to hundreds of sprinklers that safeguarded properties from encroaching flames and falling embers.
Following the successful containment of the Kings County wildfire, the equipment is being packed away in trailers until it is required again. This wildfire season witnessed the most extensive protective efforts in the province’s history, with the Department of Emergency Management investing in additional structure protection units containing essential equipment like sprinklers, pumps, and hoses.
Dave Rockwood, the province’s fire and ground search and rescue coordinator, mentioned the significant deployment of sprinklers during the Lake George and Long Lake wildfires, which effectively shielded numerous homes and infrastructure. These sprinklers work by dampening surfaces to prevent ignition from embers and cooling the environment to impede fire advancement.
At Lake George, around 600 sprinklers of different types were utilized, taking five days to set up and weeks of labor to maintain. While Nova Scotia currently possesses one structure protection unit, plans are in place to procure more units to enhance protection across the province. The province also collaborates with local fire departments, such as Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency and the Brooklyn Volunteer Fire Department, who have their own units.
During the Long Lake fire in Annapolis County, 88 homes were equipped with sprinklers, saving 85 of them, according to provincial spokesperson Patricia Jreige. Despite the loss of 20 homes, Jason Burton’s house, equipped with sprinklers, remained unscathed while his garage was consumed by the flames.
Rockwood explained that during the Lake George fire, a network of sprinklers was strategically placed to create a water barrier around communities, safeguarding structures. The logistical challenge of keeping the sprinklers operational involves constantly moving water from sources to tanks to maintain water supply.
The province’s decision not to use sprinklers during the Halifax-area and Shelburne County wildfires in May 2023 was due to the rapid fire spread typical of early-season fires. The procurement of new structure protection units will follow the province’s standard acquisition process.
By implementing innovative strategies like sprinkler systems, Nova Scotia continues to enhance its wildfire protection measures, safeguarding homes and communities from the devastating impact of wildfires.