Forest fire hazard now high in some areas

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

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Northeast Region - May 6, 2013

The forest fire hazard in areas south of Highway 17 is currently high.  

The public is advised that grass fuels are very dry and multiple new forest fires are occurring daily.

There were 16 new fires in the region between May 3 and May 6 – all caused by people.

Sudbury district responded to seven new fires burning approximately nine hectares. 

Midhurst responded to one new fire burning 3.5 hectares. 

Pembroke also responded to one new fire. 

All of these fires are now out.

North Bay district responded to two new fires over the weekend covering a total of 3.4 hectares. 

One is out and the other is being held. 

A 1.0-hectare fire was confirmed in North Bay district today and is not yet under control.

Parry Sound district had three new fires, which are all out.

Hearst 1, reported on Sunday, burned 10 hectares and is now out.

During the spring, grass and forest fuels are dry and fires can spread out of control quickly.

Residents planning on burning grass, brush or other wood debris should consider composting, chipping or taking the material to a landfill site instead. 

For more information on safe burning guidelines and how to be FireSmart, visit here.

To report a forest fire north of the French River call 310-FIRE (3473).

For areas south of the French River, please call your local municipal fire department or 911.

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