Area designated as a ‘Restricted Fire Zone’

News Release
MNR

The Ministry of Natural Resources is imposing a Restricted Fire Zone across Northwestern Ontario because of the growing threat of wildfires resulting from a prolonged heat wave and dry weather.

The forest fire hazard is extreme across the northwest. Effective at midnight Monday, July 17th and until further notice all open burning is prohibited in the territorial districts of Red Lake, Kenora, Fort Frances, Dryden, Sioux Lookout, Thunder Bay and Nipigon. Please contact your local Ministry of Natural Resources office to see if your area is affected.

By eliminating human-caused fires that result from carelessness the Ministry of Natural Resources can focus its resources on responding to new lightning-caused fires.

Under the Restricted Fire Zone regulation, all burning permits are suspended and all open fires are prohibited. Campfires may be allowed at some organized campgrounds or parks that use approved fire pits and meet certain other criteria.

Campers are encouraged to check with the owners or operators. Within the Restricted Fire Zone area, people can still use portable gas stoves for cooking and warmth, but the public is asked to exercise extreme caution.

Ministry fire staff and conservation officers will strictly enforce the ban on open burning.