RCMP NL pleads with motorists not to toss their butts after discarded cigarette sparks small fire near Whitbourne

The RCMP is investigating a brush fire that fire officials believe was sparked by the careless disposal of a cigarette butt along the Trans-Canada Highway, east of Whitbourne, on Friday.

RCMP, Whitbourne Volunteer Fire Department and the Bay De Grave Regional Fire Department all responded to a report of a brush fire along the Trans-Canada Highway, in the vicinity of the Makinsons-Hodgewater Line exit.

The fire was quickly extinguished before it could spread further into the brush and nearby wooded area. Fire crews doused the fire and monitored the area for hot spots.

There were no injuries reported.

Investigators are now seeking information from the public to assist with the ongoing investigation. Any witnesses to the fire or any motorists with dash camera footage recorded in the area at the time are asked to contact Placentia-Whitbourne RCMP at 709-759-2600.

RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador thanks the passerby who spotted the blaze and immediately reported the fire via 9-1-1.

It is likely that this fire was completely preventable — and the outcome could have been far worse. Discarding a burning cigarette butt anywhere in the province carries an extreme risk of starting a wildfire. This careless act could divert valuable resources from battling other fires and puts everyone at risk.