THUNDER BAY - While many people normally celebrate May long weekend with fireworks and bonfires those could land you a fine in Shuniah this year.
The fire ban has been lifted in Thunder Bay, however, it is still in effect in Shuniah leaving local camping grounds with not - so happy campers.
Shuniah Fire Chief Blair Arthur said fireworks for Victoria Day long weekend will have to be saved for another time.
According to a press release, the Forest Fire Hazard is expected to rise throughout the week and into the weekend due to no precipitation and warm temperatures.
The bush is dry and the risk of a wildfire spreading quickly is high.
“The Ministry of Natural Resources takes this very seriously so they don’t want to impose something that is not necessary,” Arthur said.
KOA Kamping grounds located in Shuniah say the fire ban is putting a bit of a damper on the first camping weekend of the year but the law is the law and they will be enforcing it.
Arthur explained restricted fire zones like the one currently in Shuniah make it easier for emergency services to spot real, dangerous fires quickly.
“With the restricted fire zone when there is no burning whatsoever we shouldn’t see smoke. We shouldn’t see any burning whatsoever so it’s very easy for us to identify if something can be out of hand very quickly,” he said.
Not adhering to the restricted fire zone regulations could land you a fine.
Arthur said he is not sure when Shuniah will be in the clear, but precipitation and green grass will lessen the risk.
(TBT News)
