Hearst forest fire still burning out of control

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

************************* Forest fire situation update - East Fire Region

June 28, 2010

There have been no new fires reported for June 28.

Hearst 31, reported on the evening of June 25, is 485 hectares in size and is not yet under control.

It is approximately 40 kilometres northeast of Kapuskasing, north of Torrance Lake, directly along Tucker Creek.

With the help of constant water bombing yesterday and some over night rainfall, FireRanger crews are making good progress on the fire.

There are no values threatened, however this area is commonly used for wilderness recreation.

Anyone within Torrance Lake, Hopkins Creek area should be aware that smoky conditions may exist as a result of the fire.

Crews from the East Fire Region are assisting in both Quebec and Manitoba.

Regardless of the fire hazard always build a safe campfire. Build your fire on bare soil or exposed rock, sheltered from the wind and away from tents or buildings.

Keep a pail of water and shovel nearby and make sure the fire is not left unattended.

Keep your fire small and when you're finished, make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving the site.

Remember to drown, stir, drown!

To view the current forest fire hazard in your area, click here to view the fire danger map.

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.

Be FireSmart, visit 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.

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

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