A regional restriction on open-air burning, known as a restricted fire zone (RFZ), that has been in place for parts of northwestern Ontario and a small section of the northeast since July 15 is scheduled to be lifted on Thursday morning.
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) in Ontario will officially rescind the order at 12:01 a.m. ET. During the RFZ period, all open-air burning, including campfires, was prohibited. Once the restriction is lifted, individuals will be permitted to light fires no earlier than two hours before sunset and must extinguish them no later than two hours after sunrise. It’s worth noting that certain municipalities like Thunder Bay have specific regulations regarding fire ignition times.
The MNR expressed gratitude to the residents of the province for their efforts in preventing wildland fires and ensuring community safety. The ministry emphasized the importance of exercising extreme caution and adhering to Ontario’s Outdoor Fires Regulations as detailed on the provincial forest fire website.
The MNR stated, “The province will continue to monitor wildland fire hazard conditions, and a RFZ designation could be reinstated in high-risk areas if necessary based on fire hazard levels and activity.”
The restrictions were imposed during a period of heightened wildfire activity in the region, resulting in over 2,800 individuals being displaced from numerous communities. Presently, about 700 people remain under evacuation orders.
Currently, there are approximately 110 active wildfires across the province, with seven remaining uncontained. As the forest fire risks have significantly decreased, the evacuation and implementation orders in areas such as Thunder Bay 36, Thunder Bay 56, Dryden 34, and Dryden 35 will be lifted on Thursday at 9 a.m. This will allow for the resumption of travel and use of roads and lakes in these regions, enabling over 600 evacuees from Whitesand First Nation and Armstrong to return home officially.
Thunder Bay Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) announced increased police presence on Highway 527 and in the communities of Armstrong and Whitesand First Nation to support the safe return of residents following the update of the MNR’s orders.
Kevin Anderson, division chief of fire prevention at Thunder Bay Fire Rescue, mentioned that Thunder Bay will lift its local fire ban once the RFZ is lifted, although other municipalities may retain their bans. Residents are advised to check with their local fire departments for information on ongoing municipal fire bans.
Anderson highlighted the importance of continued vigilance as the wildfire season extends until October 31 and emphasized the potential for rapid changes in conditions. Despite recent rainfall improving conditions, the ground remains dry, necessitating caution.
Residents in Thunder Bay will be allowed to light fires between 5 p.m. and midnight starting Thursday, provided they have a fire permit and maintain a safe distance from combustible materials. The Ontario interactive forest fire map online offers the latest updates on active wildfires and fire hazards in the region.