A Restricted Fire Zone has been declared in Northeastern Ontario north of the French River to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires.

Effective 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, May 20, 2010, a Restricted Fire Zone is in place and will remain in effect until conditions improve.  The fire hazard is high to extreme and is expected to increase into the foreseeable future.  The long-term weather forecast offers no relief in the form of significant precipitation.

Under the Restricted Fire Zone, all burning permits are suspended and all open fires are prohibited.  Campfires may be allowed at some organized campgrounds or parks that use approved fire pits and meet certain other criteria.  Campers should check with the owners or operators first.  Within the Restricted Fire Zone area, people can still use portable gas stoves for cooking and warmth but the public is asked to exercise extreme caution.  Ministry of Natural Resources fire staff and conservation officers will strictly enforce the restrictions on open burning.