Each year in Ontario an average of 200 wildland fires are caused by forest users including anglers, campers and canoers. There are safety recommendations to consider while you’re enjoying the great outdoors, so remember to do your part to help protect Ontario’s habitats and shorelines from wildland fires.
If you’re planning a lunch of fresh caught fish during your next day on the lake, there are a few important things to remember. Follow these campfire safety tips to keep your shore lunch fire and all campfires safe:
• build your fire on bare soil or rock in a location sheltered from the wind
• make sure your fire is at a safe distance from all flammable material, including overhanging branches
• keep your fire small and never leave it unattended
Remember that you are responsible for keeping your fire under control and putting it out when you’re done. To put out your fire:
• soak it with water
• stir the ashes with a stick to expose hot embers and then soak it again
• repeat these steps until it is cold to the touch
Remember, wildland fires can be expensive to control and you could be fined or held responsible for costs to put it out or damages caused by your fire escaping.
When you’re on the lake, be aware of wildand fires in the area and stay alert for waterbombers overhead. These specialized aircraft are used for putting out wildland fires and play a vital role in protecting the public. If waterbombers are at work in your area, move your watercraft close to shore to let them perform their duties safely and efficiently.
For real time updates, to locate specific fires and check Restricted Fire Zones in your area, visit Ontario’s Interactive Fire Map. For more tips on preventing wildland fires and information on the current fire situation go to ontario.ca/forestfires or follow us on Twitter in English and French.
To report a wildland fire located north of the French and Mattawa rivers, please dial 310-FIRE. To report a forest fire located south of the French or Mattawa rivers, please dial 911.