A new forest fire season has arrived, although it may seem hard to believe looking outside.
It started April 1 and lasts until October 31.
Last year’s dry and hot weather resulted in 1,198 fires, including the largest seen in Ontario, Kenora 51 at more than 200,667 hectares.
It also resulted in the evacuation of several northern communities and the near evacuation of Red Lake.
A total of 793,325 hectares of land burned, a majority in northwestern Ontario.
Conditions like 2021 haven’t been seen for 50 years.
This year the province has hired up to 800 fire rangers, with the ability to bring in more as needed, as well as a support staff of more than 500.
Provincial officials say they are closely monitoring weather conditions to detect fires early and to avoid large, complex fires, especially near communities and critical infrastructure.
Greg Rickford is the Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry and the Kenora-Rainy River MPP says, “Last year’s wildland fire season was exceptionally busy, and while we don’t know what this season will bring, we know we can rely on our fire rangers, pilots and support staff to battle any wildland fires and protect Ontarians.”
