Moose FM CHMT 93.1 - Timmins

If you were thinking of having a campfire this weekend, it’s not going to happen. At midnight, Thursday the Ministry of Natural Resources declared a Restricted Fire Zone Order has been set for all of Northeastern Ontario. The fire hazard at this time is high to extreme and the order will help reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires. The restriction remains in effect until the threat eases. If you’re caught with an open fire during this time, you’re looking at fines up to $1,000.

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.