Eight new fires reported

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

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Eight new fires have been reported since June 25.

There are seven active fires in the region, one of which is not under control. Hearst District 5 is not under control, at 5.0 hectares. No problems are expected with any of these fires.

Fire Hazard

The forest fire hazard is extreme throughout much of the region, and remains high in south. Sunshine and dry conditions with temperatures in the high twenties are in the forecast. Similar weather is forecast for Saturday, with temperatures expected to reach the low thirties.

Exercise caution when partaking in any woodland activities. Resources are adequate to deal with expected fire load.

Regional Synopsis

Fifty-eight fires have been confirmed in the Northeast Region to date, burning a total combined area of 208.9 hectares.

Be FireSmart!

Did you know? About 200,000 hectares of forest are burned each year and forest fires can cost millions of dollars to put out. Often, unattended campfires are the cause.

If you're going camping and plan to have a campfire, please ensure you build a safe campfire. Keep your campfire small, have water nearby and never leave it unattended.  Once you are finished, make sure your campfire is completely extinguished.

Under the Forest Fires Prevention Act (FFPA), if you start a wildfire, you could be held liable for the costs of suppressing the fire.

For tips on how to Be FireSmart and ensure your campfire is safe, visit www.ontario.ca/fireprevention.

For more information about the current fire situation, visit www.ontario.ca/forestfire.  

Report forest fires north of the French and Mattawa rivers by calling 310-FIRE (3473).  In southern regions, forest fires can be reported by calling your local fire department.

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