Northumberland County and the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) are reminding residents and visitors that extreme fire risk conditions mean every precaution must be taken to prevent wildfires.
Prolonged drought has left local forests tinder-dry, raising the risk that even a small spark could cause a fast-moving fire. County Natural Heritage Manager Todd Farrell warns that such a blaze could quickly threaten homes, properties, and lives.
Burn bans are currently in place across all of Northumberland County and much of central Ontario. These bans prohibit open-air burning, campfires, fireworks, sparklers, and flares. The County Forest and Ganaraska Forest have a year-round ban on these activities under municipal by-laws and the Conservation Authorities Act.
Officials are also urging motorized vehicle users to exercise caution. Heat from exhaust systems, leaking fuel, or malfunctioning spark arrestors can ignite dry grass and forest litter. Smokers are advised to avoid smoking in grassy or wooded areas, and to fully extinguish and remove cigarette butts if they do.
While there are currently no active wildfires in the County Forest or Ganaraska Forest, several are burning in neighbouring regions. Early detection is key to preventing small fires from growing.
Local fire departments stress that anyone who sees or smells smoke, or spots an active fire, should call 9-1-1 immediately, regardless of where they believe it may be located.
“Quick reporting helps emergency services respond faster and protects our community,” Farrell says. “There is absolutely no burning allowed in the Forest – now or at any time of the year.”
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
