Latest east region forest fire update

MNR News Release

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There were four new fires confirmed on April 28. Sudbury 16, near Sagamok, is under control at 1.2 hectares in size. Sudbury 17, in the Burwash area, is out. Cochrane 5 is out while Hearst 7 is under control at 0.3 hectares. There are currently six active fires in the region and no problems are anticipated with any of them. Visit here http://forest.lrc.gov.on.ca/AFFM/fire/interactivemap/firemap_English.htm to view the active fires map.

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 current forest fire hazard is high to extreme throughout the entire East Fire Region. The hazard will continue to be high until the weekend when between 10 to 20 millimetres of rain is forecast.

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 64 fires burning nearly236 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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