Sault Ste. Marie – Wildfire Update – In the heart of fall, the Northeast Region finds itself grappling with an uptick in wildfire incidents. Despite the challenges, swift response and vigilant efforts are underway to ensure the safety of communities and natural landscapes.

Four New Fires Prompt Swift Action

Since the last report on October 3, four new fires have emerged, demanding immediate attention:

1. North Bay 17: A 0.3-hectare fire surfaced on an island on Cross Lake, confirmed on October 4 and swiftly brought under control. A dedicated FireRanger crew is managing this situation.
2. Sudbury 48: This 0.6-hectare fire, located near Rock Lake and 200 meters east of Hwy 637, was confirmed on October 4 and is now under control, thanks to the rapid response efforts.
3. Hearst 22: A 0.5-hectare fire situated half a kilometer northwest of Fushimi Lake, near Neely Rd, was confirmed on October 4. Two FireRanger crews and one aircraft are actively working to contain the blaze, which is now under control.
4. Kirkland Lake 17: Located next to Watabeag Lake Rd, 200 meters north of Stock Lakes, this 0.3-hectare fire was confirmed on October 4 and swiftly resolved on the same day.

Current Fire Situation

As of this report, there are 30 active wildland fires in the Northeast Region. While commendable efforts have brought 6 under control, 24 fires remain under observation, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by firefighting teams.

Varied Fire Hazard Levels

The fire hazard situation is diverse across the Northeast Region. Ranging from low to moderate, an area with a high hazard has been identified around Bancroft and Renfrew. In the Far North, the fire hazard remains comparatively low, but vigilance remains paramount.

Community Participation is Crucial

The public is urged to play an active role in wildfire prevention. Responsible outdoor burning practices are crucial, especially as fall progresses. Adhering to Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations is essential, ensuring that fires are ignited no sooner than two hours before sunset and extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

As we navigate the intricacies of fall and its associated challenges, staying informed is key. The next update will be published on Tuesday, October 10, providing the latest insights into the Northeast Region’s ongoing firefighting endeavors. Together, we can protect our communities and preserve the beauty of our natural surroundings.