The Ontario government is designating the entire fire region as a restricted fire zone meaning people who live within the region will be unable to have an outdoor fire—this includes burning of grass, debris, and campfires.
The intent is to protect people and communities from the risk of preventable human-caused fires and to ensure that the province’s emergency response system remains strong during the COVID-19 outbreak. To see if you fall within the region, click this map.
Local municipalities are working to update their websites with information for residents.
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“During this very challenging time when we are fighting the spread of the virus, our number one priority is the health and safety of the people of Ontario,” said John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry in a statement. “We are putting these important preventative measures in place now to ensure that our emergency responders are able to focus their efforts where they are needed most.”
The province has said the restriction will remain in place until its ability to respond to emergencies is no longer impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.
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