Manitoba Fire Bulletin #2

The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises that although wildfire danger across Manitoba is low, Manitobans are encouraged to remain cautious throughout the long weekend as temperatures will begin to rise.

There are 11 active wildfires currently burning in Manitoba. The Manitoba Wildfire Service is actively working to suppress multiple fires in the area of Norway House Cree Nation and Pimicikamak Cree Nation, utilizing ground crews and aircraft.

Due to dry conditions and fire risk near Lundar Beach Provincial Park, effective immediately, campfires at Lundar Beach Provincial Park will only be allowed in approved pits and limited to developed areas between the hours of 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. This restriction is being applied in this provincial park until further notice.

Manitobans are reminded to avoid wildfire areas and watch for road closure or detour signs. When using an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in areas where backcountry travel is permitted, ATV operators are asked to stay on developed trails, stop frequently to check areas around the engine and exhaust for debris, and carefully dispose of any debris found.

Operators are also reminded to be prepared by carrying a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel.

Provincial burning permits are required for outdoor fires set within the Burn Permit Area from April 1 to Nov. 15 annually. Provincial burn permits issued under the Wildfires Act may be cancelled or restricted at short notice if fire danger conditions require. The province will not issue burning permits for areas where municipalities have already implemented burning restrictions.

The public is reminded to contact a local municipality or the local Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development office for more information. Burn permit holders are reminded to check weather conditions, have adequate suppression equipment and ensure proper fuel breaks are in place before burning.

Never leave an outdoor fire unattended and always extinguish it before leaving, exercise caution when in or near forested areas.

FireSmart Tip: Having a detailed plan in place is crucial for responding to a wildfire in a timely and effective manner. If you have not already done so, take some time to create a wildfire evacuation plan. If you already have a plan in place, take some time to review it to ensure that everything is sufficiently accounted for. A quick review can be the key difference between an effective and ineffective plan.

The Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) continues to work with all local authorities and emergency management partners to provide guidance and support for emergency response activities. Manitoba EMO continues to work closely with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and the Canadian Red Cross in supporting ISC-led response measures with First Nation communities.

For further information on Manitoba Wildfire Service, situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links go to www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ or follow the Twitter account at https://twitter.com/mbgovnews.

To report a wildfire, call 911 or the TIP line (toll-free) at 1-800-782-0076.