UPDATE: July 11, 2023
Released by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry: The Restricted Fire Zone (RFZ) for Ontario’s Fire Region will be lifted on July 11 at 4 p.m. Use extreme caution and follow the Outdoor Fires Regulation when having an outdoor fire. Thank you for doing your part to help prevent forest fires.
Visit ontario.ca/forestfire for more info.
Posted June 1, 2023
In response to the high risk of forest fires, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has announced the implementation of a Restricted Fire Zone starting from Thursday, June 1, at 12:01 a.m. local time. This measure applies to various districts across Ontario, including West Nipissing.
Under the Restricted Fire Zone regulations, the use of open air fires, including campfires, is strictly prohibited within the designated areas. During a total fire ban, NO fires of any type are permitted at any time including for cooking and warmth. However, individuals are allowed to utilize portable gas or propane stoves for cooking and warmth, provided they exercise extreme caution.
Extra caution should also be taken when using equipment/tools that may produce heat:
- Limit use of grinding tools and hot works outdoors;
- DO NOT drive any type of vehicle through long grass/brush as hot exhausts and engines can ignite dry ground cover; and
- Be safe and present when barbecuing.
Furthermore, all burning permits have been temporarily suspended in light of the Restricted Fire Zone declaration.
The Restricted Fire Zone will remain in effect until further notice.
For detailed information regarding the permissible and prohibited activities within a Restricted Fire Zone, please visit http://www.ontario.ca/page/outdoor-fire-restrictions
Frank Loeffen
West Nipissing Fire Chief