COCHRANE – Time of Report 17:15 – One new fire was discovered in the evening of July 26. Cochrane 20 is not under control at 4 hectares. By the afternoon of July 27, one new fire has been discovered. Hearst 3 is not under control at 0.2 of a hectare.
There are currently 14 active fires in the region, eleven of which are being observed in the far north for ecological benefits. Kirkland Lake 4 is under control at 4 hectares.
The fire hazard is low to moderate across the region.
Out of Province Deployment
There are currently 393 staff supporting the province of B.C. in their fire management efforts.
- Over 140 personnel from the first wave of resources are returning to Ontario July 27 having completed their deployment in B.C.
- The number of people in British Columbia will continue to change as resources are expected to start coming home this week and Ontario continues to try and fill additional requests for more assistance.
- Ontario plans to deploy approximately 20 more personnel later this week
- Ontario has also provided British Columbia with firefighting equipment including 10 000 lengths of fire hose, 2 structural protection units and over 200 pump kits
Ontario has increased the maximum fines for individuals and corporations for starting forest fires.
Increased Fines for Starting a Forest Fire
‘Ontario Strengthens Law to Deter Forest Fires’
Planning to have a campfire?
Here are some tips on how to safely enjoy your campfire and avoid the costs and dangers that can arise from an unextinguished or unattended campfire:
- Choose your site carefully. Select a site with easy access to water that is sheltered from high winds. The fire must be built on bare rock or non-combustible material.
- Prepare the site. Clear a one metre space around your campfire site and remove all pine needles, grasses, leaves and twigs.
- Keep your fire small. By law, your campfire cannot exceed one metre in height and one metre in diameter.
- Stay nearby. Never leave your campfire unattended.
- Put your fire out. Soak your fire with water.
- Be sure the fire is extinguished. Stir the ashes with a stick to uncover hot coals and then soak it again!
Fire numbers and online information:
- To report a forest fire located north of the French and Mattawa rivers, please dial 310-FIRE (3473)
- To report a forest fire located south of the French or Mattawa rivers, please dial 911.
- Follow us on Twitter : in English @ONForestFires or in French @ONFeuDeForêt
- For up to date information on current fires in the province visit Ontario.ca/forestfire
For guidelines on safe outdoor fire management ontario.ca/fireprevention
