DRYDEN — The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) is declaring a restricted fire zone that will remain until further notice for the Northwest region, as of Friday at 12:01 a.m, local time.
The decision was made now to allow the ministry's resources to focus on the existing fire load and new fires caused by lightning.
In response to the extreme forest fire hazard conditions and to reduce the number of human-caused fires, all burning permits are suspended and open-air burning, including campfires, is not permitted within the restricted fire zone.
The area spans roughly west from English River to the Manitoba border and north from the U.S. border to Pickle Lake.
Those in the area must also handle portable gas or propane stoves with extreme caution, but they may be used for cooking and warmth.
In alignment with this order, the city of Dryden has also implemented a total fire ban in the city, strictly prohibiting all brush and grass burning, backyard fire pits, campfires and cook stoves or appliances that use solid fuels.
The service put the ban into place not only due to the high to extreme fire hazard conditions, but also increased forest fire activity and the current strain on firefighting resources.
During the ban, propane and natural gas BBQs are permitted and must be used with extreme caution.
All active burn permits in the city are also suspended and no new permits will be issued while in effect.
“Your cooperation is essential in helping protect our community and natural resources during this high-risk period. Thank you for doing your part to prevent wildfires,” said Chris Wood, the service’s fire chief.
Precipitation and cooler temperatures across the region are expected to bring some relief to the area, according to the MNR's Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services.
However, the identified areas remain in a state of escalated fire activity.
Residents can find more details and a precise boundary of the restricted fire zone in effect online.
Residents can also visit the province's website to learn more about what is permitted and not permitted in the zone.
This story has been updated with new information from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
