THUNDER BAY – The city will be under a fire ban as of Friday.
Thunder Bay Fire Rescue on Thursday announced the ban on all outdoor open-air burning within the municipality will go into effect as of 12:01 a.m., following the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s declaration of a restricted fire zone for the Thunder Bay District.
The move comes in response to an elevated fire risk in the region.
All open-air and recreational burning permits will be suspended, as of the implementation of the ban, until further notice.
Residents are reminded all outdoor burning is strictly prohibited, including campfires, backyard fire pits and brush burning.
Failure to follow the band could result in fines and other penalties.
Cooking on propane, natural gas or charcoal barbecues is allowed, and CSA-approved propane and natural gas fire bowls may be used.
Ceremonial or sacred fires approved by Thunder Bay Fire Rescue are also permitted.
As a result of the threat of wildfires throughout the region, residents are encouraged to assemble or update a 72-hour emergency kit with food, water, medications and other essential supplies.
The fire ban will remain in effect weather and fire conditions improve and the restricted fire zone is lifted by the MNRF.
