July 20, 2018: MNRF FIRE RESTRICTION REMAINS IN EFFECT The Fire Restriction, originally imposed on July 8th, 2018, by the Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry (MNRF) remains in effect. Please note the information below from the Ministry’s Forest Fires page: “Restricted Fire Zone declared in Northeast Region Due to the extreme fire hazard, several recent periods of heavy lightning and the large number of wildfires burning, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has implemented a Restricted Fire Zone in some areas of Northeastern Ontario as outlined on the interactive fire map. During a Restricted Fire Zone, the use of open fires – such as campfires, or burning of brush or debris, is restricted. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to $25,000 and three months in jail, as well as financial responsibility for the costs incurred in fighting a forest fire. Portable gas or propane stoves are permitted for use for cooking or warmth, though they should be closely monitored. Portable charcoal BBQs and Hibachis are not permitted unless within 100 metres of a dwelling, or within an organized campground. Commercial campground operators may allow their guests to enjoy campfires during a Restricted Fire Zone period provided they meet certain conditions. The Restricted Fire Zone is a temporary measure to reduce the number of new human-caused wildfires as the Aviation Forest Fire and Emergency Services branch of the OMNRF expects the elevated forest fire hazard to continue into the foreseeable future.” To report a forest fire call 310-FIRE (3473). Please click here to visit the MNRF Forest Fires page for further details. Original Huron Shores Fire Ban Notice posted July 6/18: Due to the current dry conditions, effective immediately and until further notice, the Huron Shores Fire Department is imposing a Fire Ban. Small, contained fires for cooking and/or warmth are allowed, however, under Section 1.3 of the Open Air Burning By-law (By-law #14-08), fireworks are NOT permitted. Open Air Burning Permits are not required for “campfires”, also defined under By-law #14-08, as being a small, contained fire, no greater than 1 metre in diameter with the flames to be no higher than 1 metre (this does not include large bonfires or brush fires). Under Huron Shores’ current Open Air Burning By-law, campfires ARE permitted when a Fire Ban is imposed. By-laws governing open air burning vary from municipality to municipality. If you are unsure of the by-law in your community, contact your municipal office prior to burning. For more information with respect to Fire Bans and infractions of the by-law, please contact the Municipal Office at 705-843-2033, or visit the Fire Department page of huronshores.ca.