Fire officials with Yukon Wildland Fire Management are concerned after yet another human-caused wildfire was discovered within the community of Ross River.

“This is the fourth fire this year in Ross River that has been human-caused, and the result of a campfire being abandoned and not put out properly,” Yukon duty officer Mike Sparks said today.

“Fires of this nature are dangerous, totally preventable and incidents that could have resulted in a much more serious situation if not for the quick action of firefighters.”

The most recent fire was reported by a member of the public at about 6 p.m. Wednesday.

The 0.01-hectare blaze was discovered burning at the Ross River sewage lagoon, just 1.9 kilometres northwest of the community.

Once notified, three Wildland firefighters immediately responded and were able to quickly contain and extinguish it.

Fire officials are reminding the public to be responsible whenever they light a campfire.

Before burning, ensure campfires are permitted in the area. If so, keep your fire to a manageable size, and use designated fire pits when available.

Ensure the fire is monitored at all times and always be sure to properly extinguish it by repeatedly dousing and stirring it until it’s cold to touch.

The public is also being asked to report any wildfires to 1-888-798-FIRE (3473).

When calling, be aware of the fire size, the colour of smoke and the fire’s proximity to prominent landmarks such as roads, creeks, lakes and highway kilometre posts.

“Abandoned campfires are the leading cause of human-caused fires in the territory,” said Sparks.

“While the numbers are reducing every year, one is still too many, especially when you consider the potential this fire had.”

This most recent fire was the 30th in the territory this fire season. A total of 15, 280 hectares have burned as a result.

Campfires are permitted outside of Whitehorse city limits.

The public is reminded that burning permits are mandatory for any burning of brush, grass or debris.

This also applies to burning with a burn barrel or lighting an open fire for any other purpose than a campfire.

Permits are free, but the public should note that if the danger rating is moderate, high or extreme, permits are suspended.