July 20 UPDATE: Huron Shores Fire Ban Remains in Effect

Although the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has lifted the Restricted Fire Zone Order for this portion of the Northeast Region, the Municipal Fire Ban, imposed July 5th, 2012, REMAINS IN EFFECT.  Small, contained fires are permitted for cooking and/or warmth.  All Open Air Burning Permits (for burning grass, wood debris, etc.) are suspended and no permits will be renewed while the ban remains in place.  The Fire Department reminds everyone that conditions remain extremely dry and to exercise caution when burning.  Fires should never be left unattended and always ensure that sufficient tools, water, etc. are at hand to control and then thoroughly extinguish the fire afterward. For additional information regarding Fire Bans, open air burning and penalties for infraction of the by-law, please click here, or call the Municipal Office 705-843-2033.

ORIGINAL JULY 13, 2012, NOTICE FOLLOWS:

——————————–

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Effective 12:01 A.M. July 13, 2012 , a Restricted Fire Zone Order has been declared for Northeastern Ontario in an area north of the French and Mattawa rivers, including French River Provincial Park, east to the Quebec border, and then to the western boundary of the Northeast Region. The order is in place to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during a period of high fire hazard.

You cannot have a campfire even in an outdoor fire grate, fire place or fire pit.

The most important thing to remember about a Restricted Fire Zone is that open fires, including campfires, are illegal. The only exception is in organized campgrounds and parks, where if strict criteria are met, the campground operator may allow campfires and charcoal BBQs but only during certain hours and under very strict controls. So, if you see a fire in a restricted fire zone (except in a campground or park) chances are it’s a forest fire and should be reported to the Ministry of Natural Resources right away.

To report a forest fire in northern Ontario, call 310-FIRE (3473).

Look for and obey the Restricted Fire Zone signs, and report any forest fires to the Ministry. These are two positive things you can do to help keep our forests green for everyone to enjoy.