NIPIGON – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is seeking the public’s help in identifying the individual or individuals responsible for starting a forest fire on the evening of August 2, 2017, at Bald Spot Lookout overlooking the Town of Nipigon.
The fire was discovered by local citizens who called the Nipigon Fire Department. On August 3, 2017, a Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry fire crew was called in to extinguish the fire.
If you have any information about this fire, please call the MNRF TIPS line at 1-877-847-7667 toll-free any time, or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
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!
Ontario has increased the maximum fines for individuals and corporations for starting forest fires.
