Camping season is right around the corner, and with that comes the risk of forest fires. The Ministry of Natural Resources is reminding the public to be careful when it comes to bonfires, making sure they are always tended to and never left alone. On average, a thousand wildfires burn in Ontario each year, half of which are caused by people. April to October marks the fire season in the province.
The MNR is releasing the following fire safety tips:
- Taking all necessary steps to tend the fire
- Keeping it under control
- Making sure the fire is out before leaving the site
- Spreading out leaves if raking them into a forested area. Piles of leaves don’t decompose very quickly and if they catch on fire can be quickly carried by the wind.
- Storing all firewood at least 10 metres from all structures, including decks
- Keeping roofs and rain gutters free of flammable leaves, pine needles, and other debris that can be ignited by wind-blown embers.
- Ensuring firework displays are safe by launching fireworks over an area free of flammable material, such as gravel or a body of water and, when completed, checking the area for any hot residue to ensure it is put out
Click here for outdoor fire rules and permits.