The forest fire hazard is high to extreme today across most of the Northwest Region, with the Rainy River District classified as Extreme. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is asking the public to use caution with outdoor fires when in the forest or around their property.
A new 100 hectare fire was spotted yesterday, burning east of Mine Centre. There are four fires currently burning in the Northwest region.
No restricted fire zone is currently in place in the Northwest Region, though residents who do choose to burn must comply with the Outdoor Burning Regulations set out by the Forest Fires Prevention Act.
Piled materials should be no larger than two metres wide, two metres high and at least two metres from any combustible materials. Piles can be lit no sooner than two hours before sunset and fully extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise. Only one pile can be burned at a time and water and hand tools should be close at hand to prevent the fire from escaping. Residents within municipal boundaries should check in with their local fire departments for municipal restrictions and permitting requirements. A full list of outdoor burning regulations can be found at www.ontario.ca/page/outdoor-fire-rules-and-permits.
Campfires should be built on bare soil or rock in areas that are sheltered from the wind and at least one metre away from any flammable materials and at least three metres form any overhanging branches. Campfires should never be left unattended and should always be extinguished fully when leaving the site.
Campfire rules and forest fire prevention tips can be found at www.ontario.ca/page/how-prevent-forest-fires.
To stay informed about the current fire hazard in your area, visit ontario.ca/forestfire and click on the interactive fire map.
