Forest fire safety tips

NEWS RELEASE

ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE

*************************
NORTH EAST REGION – The North East Region (NER) Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have re-opened the highway following two closures due to ongoing forest fires near Hearst and White River.  

Forest fires put our communities, environmental resources, and the public at risk.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) have crews deployed that are actively working to extinguish these fires. 

Here are some safety tips to remember: 

• If you observe a wildfire, call 911 and evacuate your family and pets to a safe location;
• Spring grass fires can be destructive. Seek alternatives by considering composting or using your local landfill;
• Do NOT toss a cigarette out of your vehicle window and ensure that cigarette butts are properly extinguished before being discarded anywhere;
• Assure safe campfire practices;
• You can’t have a fire in a restricted fire zone. This includes all grass and debris burning, campfires, fire places and fire pits;
• Make sure every floor of your home including sleeping areas have smoke detectors;
• Plan fire safety techniques and teach them to your family;
• Practice your plan and assure that all members of the family know how to get out of the house quick and safe; 
• Should there be an evacuation, family members require a plan to be able to contact each other in case you are separated.

For any information regarding active forest fires in the region please contact the MNRF.  Visit the links provided to view the Forest Fire Information Map, verify any forest fire hazards that may be in your area, and to keep informed of fire safety techniques. 

Links:

www.ontario.ca/ministry-natural-resources-and-forestry

www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/forest-fires

*************************