The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is closely monitoring a growing potential for human-caused fires in the Northwest Region.
Officials are urging residents to burn safely, or ideally, not at all.
“Recent examples of fast-spreading grass fires in areas near residential zones (wildland/urban interface) in Dryden, Kenora and Fort Frances illustrate the need for extreme caution with all forms of outdoor burning,” said Aviation Forest Fire and Emergency Services, Fire Information Officer Chris Marchand. “Spring yard cleanup is on the minds of many people this time of year. However, in this volatile period for spring fires, we encourage residents to save their burn piles for the fall, or consider alternatives to burning like chipping, composting or using the local landfill.”
There is no restricted fire zone in place at this time, but residents who do choose to burn must follow outdoor burning regulations set out by the Forest Fires Prevention Act.
The MNRF also encourages residents within municipal boundaries to check with their local fire departments for municipal restrictions and permitting requirements.
A full list of outdoor burning regulations can be found at Outdoor fire rules and permits | Ontario.ca.
Campfire rules and forest fire prevention tips can be found at How to prevent forest fires | Ontario.ca.
To stay informed about the current fire hazard in your area, visit the interactive fire map.
