Yukon Wildland Fire Management officials are hoping the second time is the charm for a prescribed burn that was postponed last month.

“The current weather forecast may create favourable conditions for prescribed burning work on the Whitehorse South Fuel Break (this) week,” Wildland Fire said in a statement.

“Crews will try to do up to three planned prescribed burns (this) week behind Mary Lake, where prescribed burns have taken place over the last two years.

“The current plan is to carry out operations on Thursday, August 8 and Friday, August 9 on blocks near the Trans Canada Trail. If the weather holds, burning will continue the following week.

“As with all prescribed burning, the plan protects the public with specific safety measures and weather conditions.”

The smoke from this burn will be visible from many parts of Whitehorse.

In a recent survey conducted for Wildland Fire by the Yukon Bureau of Statistics, 76% per cent of Whitehorse residents agreed with the use of prescribed burning to reduce wildfire risk.

Wildland Fire said it appreciates public support for prescribed burning, adding, “During the prescribed burn, firefighters will be active in the area south of Mary Lake. Trails will be open, but please follow firefighters’ instructions.

“While Wildland Fire makes every effort to reduce smoke impacts from prescribed burning, if you have specific concerns about your relationship with wildfire smoke, talk to your health care professional or call 811.”