The Restricted Fire Zone previously in place for the entire Fire Region of Ontario has been lifted, effective Tuesday, July 11, at 16:00 hrs. Killarney and French River Provincial Park have also lifted their fire bans.
The fire danger rating is presently Moderate for our area.
The usual set of rules such as time-of-day restrictions remain in effect:
– https://www.ontario.ca/page/outdoor-fire-rules-and-permits
– https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/frenchriver/alerts
– http://municipalityofkillarney.ca/
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry would like to thank Ontarians and visitors for doing their part to help prevent forest fires and keep communities safe. Please continue to use extreme caution and follow Ontario’s Outdoor Fires Regulations when having an outdoor fire.
Lifting the RFZ does not mean we can let our guard down when it comes to preventing human-caused fires. We all need to remain vigilant and keep safety top of mind when having outdoor fires. The overall fire danger can change rapidly based on the daily weather resulting in low to moderate fire danger one day, followed by high to extreme hazard the next simply based on the surface forest fuels drying out quickly, leading to fires starting easily and higher rates of fire spread under the right burning conditions.
Stay alert and be informed of the fire hazard near you on the public forest fire information map at Ontario.ca/forestfire. You can also follow us on Twitter: @ONforestfires for up-to-date information on the fire situation.
Important Announcement: Restricted Fire Zone Declared in Ontario
In addition to the fire ban imposed by the Municipality of Killarney on May 29: Due to the extreme forest fire hazard, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has declared a Restricted Fire Zone for the entire fire region of Ontario. This means that open air burning, including campfires, is not permitted. Portable gas or propane stoves may be used for cooking and warmth BUT must be handled with extreme caution. All burning permits are suspended. Visit Ontario.ca/forestfire for updates.
Ontario has already experienced a staggering 276 forest fires this year, well above the 10-year average of 203 for the entire season!
Climate change plays a significant role in this concerning trend. As our planet warms, we witness more frequent and intense heatwaves and droughts, creating the perfect conditions for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly. The implications go beyond forest fires and extend to other outdoor activities we cherish. Here’s how climate change affects some of our favourite pursuits:
🔥 Forest Fires: Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns dry out vegetation, turning forests into tinderboxes. This poses a significant threat to wildlife habitats and nearby communities. Let’s prioritize fire safety, follow the Restricted Fire Zone guidelines, and support initiatives aimed at preventing and managing forest fires.
🎣 Fishing: Climate change impacts aquatic ecosystems, altering water temperatures and disrupting the delicate balance of marine life. Fish populations may decline, affecting the availability and diversity of species for fishing enthusiasts. It’s crucial to practice sustainable fishing methods and support conservation efforts to protect our favourite pastime.
🌊 Boating: Climate change influences our lakes and water bodies in various ways. Rising water temperatures can lead to harmful algal blooms, affecting water quality and harming aquatic organisms. Additionally, changing weather patterns may result in more severe storms, posing risks to boaters. Let’s prioritize water conservation, responsible boating practices, and be aware of weather conditions for safe and enjoyable experiences.
🦌 Hunting: Climate change affects wildlife populations and their habitats, influencing the availability and behaviour of game species. Shifts in migration patterns and disruptions in food availability can impact hunting opportunities. As responsible hunters, let’s adapt to changing conditions, support habitat conservation, and practice sustainable hunting methods.
🛷 Snowmobiling: Warmer temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns can lead to unpredictable snow conditions and reduced snowfall in certain regions. These changes can affect the availability and quality of snowmobiling trails, making it harder to enjoy this exhilarating activity. Less snow coverage and thinner ice on frozen lakes can pose safety risks as well.
It’s crucial that we acknowledge the link between climate change and the increasing frequency of forest fires. By raising awareness, taking action to reduce our carbon footprint, and supporting initiatives promoting environmental sustainability, we can work together to protect our beloved outdoor activities and preserve the beauty of Ontario’s natural heritage for generations to come.