Algonquin Park Fire Declared Out
East Fire Region
September 17, 2010
Next update will be issued on Friday, September 24
There were no new fires reported in the East Fire Region by the evening of September 17. Currently, there are no active forest fires anywhere in Ontario. One new fire was reported in Algonquin Park on September 13. It was contained and declared out by September 14.
To date in the East Fire Region there have been 549 fires burning 5497.4 hectares. By comparison, at this time in 2009 there had been 173 fires and 6923.1 hectares burned.
Despite the cooler weather and low forest fire hazard, the Ministry of Natural Resources Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services program is urging the public to remain FireSmart. As a reminder for those using outdoor fires for cooking and warmth during hunting and recreational activities, remember that all fires must be kept small, built on mineral soil away from overhanging branches. They are to be attended at all times and be put dead out before leaving the site.
For residents planning to do brush or grass burning for fall clean-up, they are reminded that under the Forest Fires Prevention Act of Ontario, there is no day-burning of these fires. They are to be started no sooner than two hours before sunset and be out no later than two hours after sunrise. People living in organized municipalities should check with fire officials for local bylaws on outdoor burning.
As the summer comes to a close most seasonal firefighter contracts are ending, with a number of FireRangers returning to colleges and universities. Remaining fire staff are doing base maintenance and winterizing of Fire Attack Bases.
Always practice fire safety with your campfires and shore lunches.
