Friday forest fire update

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

************************* There have been no new fires in the East Fire Region since Friday, September 17.

The fire hazard remains low.

The 2010 fire season started early, Sudbury Fire 01 occurred March 15 on Manitoulin Island.

This fire was 0.3ha.

So far this fire season in the East Fire Region, 51 percent of fires were caused by humans and 49 percent of fires were caused by lightning.

Three fires of distinction this season included Timmins Fire 19 which threatened Schumacher and required an evacuation.

This fire burnt 83ha and extensive air attack and emergency responses. Timmins Fire 13 near Morin also required an evacuation and burnt 135ha.

Wawa Fire 18 burned 2050ha and burnt across the main hydro line for Chapleau leaving the town without power for five days.

Eastern Ontario brought in help from out of province early in the spring to deal with a hectic fire load.

Then later in the season, the East Fire Region sent fire rangers to Quebec, Manitoba, Alberta and British Columbia. 

The Ministry of Natural Resources Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services program is urging the public to remain fire smart.

As a reminder for those using outdoor fires for cooking and warmth during hunting and recreational activities, remember that all fires must be kept small, built on mineral soil away from overhanging branches.

They are to be attended at all times and be put dead out before leaving the site.

For residents planning to do brush or grass burning for fall clean-up, they are reminded that under the Forest Fires Prevention Act of Ontario, there is no day-burning of these fires.

They are to be started no sooner than two hours before sunset and be out no later than two hours after sunrise.

People living in organized municipalities should check with fire officials for local bylaws on outdoor burning.

The official end of the fire season is October 31.

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