McGuinty Government Reduces Restricted Fire Zone
Outdoor Burning Restricted In Parts of Northeastern Ontario
A Restricted Fire Zone Order previously in place for Northeastern Ontario has been replaced with a smaller Restricted Fire Zone Order. This adjusted order encompasses the general areas of Espanola, Sudbury, Manitoulin Island, North Bay and Temagami.
The previous order has been replaced because the fire hazard has lessened in some northern areas of the Northeast Region. The Sudbury-Manitoulin and North Bay areas remain under a high to extreme fire hazard. New wildfires are likely to continue appearing until significant rainfall arrives.
In a Restricted Fire Zone, 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 should check with the owners or operators first. 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 of Natural Resources fire staff and conservation officers will strictly enforce the restrictions on open burning. Starting or tending a campfire in a Restricted Fire Zone can lead to a fine of up to $1,000.
QUICK FACTS
- As of July 18, 2012, there were 96 active fires in Ontario and 871 forest fires to date this season. Many of these fires have been human-caused and have occurred near populated areas.
- 56,510 hectares have burned to date.
- 310-FIRE (3473) is northern Ontario’s toll-free forest fire reporting number.
- A Restricted Fire Zone for Algonquin Provincial Park remains in effect.
