"It's a historically proven technique, and it has multiple preventative safety measures in place to ensure that that burn area remains controlled, " Moorlag said.

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Gretzky then made his way to the harbour to light a second cauldron outside in the harbour area which will burn for the 17 days of competition.

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They even have the backing of two big international conservation groups, who claim the project will save the area from slash-and-burn farmers.

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The hospital is the area's only Level I Trauma Center and burn trauma unit.

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They had chosen this area because they knew the fire would eventually jump over and burn behind them.

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