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Two new fires were confirmed on April 30. Sudbury 20 was reported late April 30 on Manitoulin Island and is being held at 2.5 hectares in size. Sault Ste. Marie 6 is being held at 38 hectares. There are no problems anticipated with any of the fires. Visit here
Residents are reminded that if found responsible for a forest fire, they can be charged under the Forest Fires Prevention Act and/or be liable for the costs of suppressing the fire. This cost can easily run into the tens of thousands of dollars.
The forest fire hazard throughout the region is generally low except in some small pockets where no rain has been received yet. In these small pockets, the hazard is moderate. It is expected that by May 3 the entire region will be under a low hazard.
Residents or cottagers conducting spring clean up should consider composting or chipping instead of burning. Always remember to contact your local fire department or municipal office before burning.
So far this year in the East Fire Region, there have been 68 fires burning nearly288 hectares.
Be FireSmart, visit ontario.ca/fireprevention for more information on how to prevent forest fires.
310-FIRE (3473) is the new, toll-free emergency forest fire reporting phone number across northern Ontario. Early detection and reporting are essential to quickly managing forest fires. Having one number will make it easier and more efficient for Ontarians to report forest fire
emergencies. The number will operate north of the French and Mattawa Rivers.
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