The warden of Barrington says we can’t have a repeat of 2023.

As Nova Scotia continues to enforce a ban on activity in the woods, many on social media have complained the province is going too far.

Shaun Hatfield says we have to remember the devastation of the 23,000 hectare Barrington Lake fire, and the wildfire in Tantallon that destroyed dozens of homes and structures.

“That alone should impress upon us the need to keep our community safe. It seems like a reasonable measures to protect our infrastructure and human health and safety,” said Hatfield.

He says many people want their freedom, but it’s no good unless you have public safety.

“Why would I want to dislodge an entire community of people from their home by taking a risk and going into the woods, when they’re essentially a tinder box, and the driest we’ve seen in 50 years?”

Hatfield understands that people want to enjoy their camps and recreational activity.

But he notes that wildfires can happen anywhere.

A burn ban continues in the province until October, or when conditions improve.

The fine for violating the burn ban or going into the woods is $25,000.