No new fires reported; residents urged to stay alert and FireSmart as fire risk ranges from low to high

THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE UPDATE – As of 5:30 p.m. on July 5, 2025, Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) confirms that no new wildland fires have been reported in Ontario’s Northeast Fire Region. The province currently monitors two active fires, both of which are under observation and not posing immediate threats.

Despite this temporary calm, fire hazard conditions across the region remain variable, ranging from low to high, depending on local weather, vegetation dryness, and wind activity. AFFES continues to urge residents and outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution, particularly in areas where the fire hazard is elevated.

Current Fire Status in the Northeast

While both active fires are being carefully monitored and not aggressively fought at this time, their presence underscores the continued vulnerability of Ontario’s boreal regions during the peak of wildfire season. Fire crews remain ready to respond if conditions worsen or if human activity ignites new blazes.

Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario residents planning travel or recreational activities in the Northeast should consult the Interactive Fire Hazard Map at Ontario.ca/forestfire to check local fire danger levels.

Stay FireSmart: Protect Your Home and Property

With many homes and cottages located near wooded areas, residents in Northwestern Ontario and beyond are encouraged to explore the FireSmart Canada guidelines. These offer practical advice on how to reduce wildfire risks by taking simple steps like:

• Clearing debris and dead vegetation from roofs and gutters

• Creating defensible zones around buildings

• Storing flammable materials away from structures

For a complete list of FireSmart tips and strategies, visit Ontario.ca/firesmart.

Outdoor Burning Rules Still in Effect

AFFES reminds the public that outdoor burning is strictly regulated. Whenever possible, yard waste and woody debris should be composted or brought to municipal landfills rather than burned. If burning is necessary, it must comply with Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations:

• Fires must be lit no earlier than two hours before sunset and extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise

• A sufficient supply of water and tools must be present to control the fire

• Fires should never be left unattended

For a complete list of outdoor burning rules, visit the Outdoor Burning Regulations page.

Report Wildfires Immediately

Prompt reporting can help prevent small fires from becoming large-scale emergencies. Here’s how to report a wildfire in Ontario:

• North of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Call 310-FIRE (3473)

• South of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Call 911

For real-time updates and wildfire prevention tips, follow @ONforestfires (English) or @ONfeudeforet (French) on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

For detailed information about current wildfires and hazard conditions, visit Ontario.ca/fireupdates.