Rankin Inlet (Jun 14/06) - The Hamlet of Rankin Inlet is making a serious effort to cut down on the illegal consumption of alcohol at bonfire gatherings this summer.

Hamlet council has raised the issue with both the Rankin Inlet detachment of the RCMP and the fire chief.

The concern was prompted by a noticeable increase in the amount of people driving back to the community after attending such affairs last summer.

Sgt. Gavin Nash told council the RCMP would remain vigilant with spot checks in the community this summer and drop by outdoor gatherings for a visit.

"We're not looking to ruin anyone's summer fun, as long as they conduct themselves within the boundaries of the law," Nash told council members.

"Our main concerns are anyone consuming liquor in a public place, or having a few drinks at a bonfire and then jumping on their machine to drive back to town.

"Drinking and driving will not be tolerated in this community."

Rankin Fire Chief Rick Penner said people planning to have a bonfire within municipal boundaries must obtain a permit.

He said deciding which permits to approve is not an exact science.

"To be honest, when it comes to which permits I approve and which ones I refuse, it's a lot of instinct, gut reaction and the fact I've been here long enough to know a good cross-section of people," said Penner.

"If I don't know the person or people applying for the permit, and there are questions of doubt on my mind, I ask around for a kind of character check.

"I like to know what kind of fixture they're going to use for the fire - whether it's cut down barrels or a pit in the dirt with rocks around it - and the hours of operation.

"I also like to know if there's any potential for sparks to be carried from the fire to an area where there's flammable material."

Penner said he can issue a permit to just about anyone, within reason.

He added people should be aware, however, that anywhere the RCMP can reach with their truck is considered a public place, and that includes the Elder's Cabin.

"You can have a bonfire at the cabin, cook steaks and horse around and that's perfectly fine.

"But if the RCMP come along and you're drinking, you could be in for a ticket.

"I'd estimate 99 per cent of the people I've issued permits to have been responsible, and I'd like to see that trend continue.

"However, that has no bearing on people who have a bonfire without obtaining a permit."