The Fire Danger Rating has been set to high across Muskoka due to increasingly dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk.
The Muskoka Association of Fire Chiefs updated the rating today (May 28) for all municipalities in Muskoka. Fire officials say recent weather conditions have left forest floor materials such as leaves, deadfall, and grass dry enough to ignite easily, and warn that even a small ignition source could quickly spark and spread a wildfire.
Residents are being urged to take extra precautions to help prevent human-caused wildfires.
Under the new high rating, daytime burning is prohibited, including all contractor fires. All current open-air fire permits have been suspended, and no new permits will be issued. Fireworks are also strictly prohibited, and any display firework permits are now void.
Small, confined fires are still permitted without a permit between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m., however, officials say they are strongly discouraged. Residents are also reminded to ensure all burning is in accordance with local outdoor burning by-laws.
Officials continue to monitor conditions closely, and further updates will be provided when needed.
For more information on the fire danger rating in your area, visit your local municipal website.
