Fire burns out of control near Chapleau

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

************************** Three new fires were confirmed on May 1.

Sudbury 21 is 1 hectare and is being held, while Wawa 3 is 0.3 hectares and is under control.

Chapleau 6 is 25 hectares and is located approximately 6 kilometres from Chapleau.

The fire was driven by high winds and displayed extreme fire behaviour requiring the efforts of air attack with three CL-415 water bombers, and four fire ranger crews.

The fire is listed as not under control and efforts will continue today with four fire ranger crews and a helibucket.

Click here to view the active fires map.

The forest fire hazard is moderate to high from Chapleau northwards to Hearst, and low for the rest of the region.

Residents are reminded that if found responsible for a forest fire, they can be charged under the Forest Fires Prevention Act and/or be liable for the costs of suppressing the fire. 

This cost can easily run into the tens of thousands of dollars.

Residents or cottagers conducting spring clean up should consider composting or chipping instead of burning.

Always remember to contact your local fire department or municipal office before burning.

So far this year in the East Fire Region, there have been 71 fires burning nearly 314 hectares.

Be FireSmart, click here for more information on how to prevent forest fires.

310-FIRE (3473) is the new, toll-free emergency forest fire reporting phone number across northern Ontario. 

Early detection and reporting are essential to quickly managing forest fires.

Having one number will make it easier and more efficient for Ontarians to report forest fire emergencies. 

The number will operate north of the French and Mattawa Rivers.

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