“When you plan outdoor activities, it’s important to think about fire safety,” says Canada Safety Council president Emile Therien.

“Human activity leads to two-thirds of all forest fires. A major forest fire can start with a carelessly discarded cigarette or hot embers from a campfire.”

Mr. Therien points out that as more homes are built near wooded areas, and people flock to enjoy Canada’s parks and forests, fires remain a major problem.

Lightning causes about one-third of forest fires, accounting for 85 per cent of the area burned. These fires can be nature’s way of regenerating the forest.

Then there are controlled bums, which reduce unnecessary damage.

However, unplanned, uncontrolled wildfires can needlessly destroy wilderness, property, and lives. Wildfires peak in June, July and August.

Campfires and barbecues require safety precautions. Smoking poses a huge threatnever light up in or near a wooded area. Fire hazard warnings are serious business, so observe them strictly. Very dry, windy weather may force a park to close. And working smoke alarms are a must whether it's a summer cottage, a motorhome, or an all-year residence.

What could be more Canadian than roasting marshmallows, singing songs and socializing around an open fire in the evening?

To make sure everyone will have happy memories, follow this simple advice from the Canada Safety Council.

• If there is a fire pit use it, but first make sure it is free of hazards. Otherwise, look for some bare ground.

• Clear debris such as leaves or twigs away in a three metre diameter area around the fire site, and build a circle of rocks to prevent the fire from spreading.

• Adults, not kids, should start campfires. Use tinder (e.g. dry needles or grass) or crumpled newspaper to ignite the fire–never gas.

• To put out a campfire, thoroughly douse the fire site with water. Then stir to make absolutely sure there are no live embers and all the ashes are cold.

• Keep the fire under adult surveillance at all times: supervise children and pets; and prevent the fire from getting too big or sparks from flying into the bush.

• Have a bucket of water, sand and a shovel handy.

• Totally extinguish the fire before you go to sleep or when -you leave the site.