Muskoka-wide fire ban continues
(Muskoka, ON) – On Thursday July 5, 2018 the Muskoka Fire Chiefs upgraded the fire danger rating to EXTREME. Throughout the entire District of Muskoka, all open air burning and fireworks are prohibited until further notice. This past weekend, municipal fire departments across Muskoka responded to numerous burning complaints. This means that some Muskoka residents and visitors are either not aware of the fire ban or not taking the fire ban seriously.
The District of Muskoka is designated as Wildland-Urban Interface, meaning that the region has residential and commercial structures surrounded by forest fuels. Hot temperatures and the lack of moisture over the last few weeks has created favourable conditions for wildfires. It takes very little to start a hazardous fire in these conditions – an ember from a campfire, effect from fireworks, improperly discarded cigarette or a spark from a train can quickly start an uncontrollable fire.
The Muskoka Fire Chiefs and Prevention Officers are pleading with residents to be vigilant and report any open air burning or fireworks in their area during the fire ban. To report an issue, contact:
Daytime - Monday to Friday: Municipal Offices during office hours if the fire is contained. If the fire is out of control call 9-1-1 immediately.
Afterhours - evenings and weekends: Check with your municipality as procedures differ. If the fire is out of control contact 9-1-1 immediately.
If you are burning during the fire ban you may be charged under the by-law and receive a significant fine and/or be charged with the expense of the vehicles and personnel attending the fire.
For more information, contact Chad Dowell, Deputy Fire Chief, cdowell@gbtownship.ca or (800) 567-0187 x. 255
Information from the Township of Georgian Bay.