A restricted fire zone (RFZ) that has been enforced in northwestern Ontario and a small part of the northeast since July 15 will be lifted on Thursday morning. The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) plans to officially remove the order at 12:01 a.m. ET.
During a restricted fire zone, all open-air burning, including campfires, is prohibited. Once the ban is lifted, individuals will be allowed to start fires no earlier than two hours before sunset and must put them out no later than two hours after sunrise. However, specific regulations on fire ignition times may apply in certain municipalities like Thunder Bay.
The MNR expresses gratitude to the residents of the province for their efforts in preventing wildfires and ensuring community safety. The ministry advises people to exercise extreme caution and comply with Ontario’s Outdoor Fires Regulations as stated on the provincial forest fire website.
The restrictions were imposed at the peak of wildfire activity in the region, leading to the displacement of over 2,800 individuals from numerous communities. Presently, approximately 700 people are still under evacuation orders.
About 110 wildfires are currently active across the province, with seven remaining uncontained. As the forest fire risks have significantly diminished, the evacuation orders for wildfires designated as Thunder Bay 36, Thunder Bay 56, Dryden 34, and Dryden 35 will also be lifted at 9 a.m. on Thursday.
Consequently, travel on roads and lakes in these regions will be permitted, allowing more than 600 evacuees from Whitesand First Nation and Armstrong to return home. Thunder Bay Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are increasing patrols on Highway 527 and in the communities of Armstrong and Whitesand First Nation to ensure a safe return for residents.
Kevin Anderson, division chief of fire prevention at Thunder Bay Fire Rescue, mentioned that Thunder Bay will lift its municipal fire ban following the removal of the RFZ on Thursday. However, other communities may opt to maintain their fire bans. Residents are advised to check with their local fire departments for updates on municipal fire bans.
Despite the return to normal temperatures after a period of extreme heat this summer, Anderson emphasized the need for continued vigilance as the wildfire season lasts until October 31. He highlighted the unpredictable nature of wildfire conditions and urged caution to prevent any new fire incidents.
For further updates on active wildfires and forest fire risks, residents can refer to Ontario’s interactive forest fire map available online.