Wednesday was the birthday of firefighting icon Smokey the Bear, according to our province's forest firefighting service.
Perhaps bringing a bit of good luck on Smokey's special day, the one new wildland fire that was confirmed yesterday in Ontario's northeast was deemed to be out almost as soon as it started.
Wawa 28 was a 0.1 hectare fire located about 21 km east of Highway 614 and 34 km north of Highway 17. The fire was both confirmed and declared out on the same day.
"Today we celebrate the renowned mascot of fire prevention, Smokey Bear! Smokey was born August 9, 1944. Today he celebrates his 79th birthday. Happy Birthday, Smokey!" Ontario Forest Fires said in a Tweet with the hashtags #SmokeysBirthday and #FirePrevention on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services for the Northeast Fire Region says there are 36 active wildland fires in the Northeast Region as of Wednesday evening. Of these, nine are under control and 27 are being observed.
The AFFES said the fire hazard varies from moderate to high for most of the Northeast Region with a pocket of low hazard around Ranger Lake.
The Far North as well as the southern areas of the region (from French River to North Bay, Jocko Rivers Provincial Park and south) continue to see a low fire hazard. For a closer look at fire hazard conditions, view this interactive map.
The AFFES issued a reminder about caution when using fireworks.
"Fireworks are an exciting part of summer, but practice fire safety!" the fire service said. "You are responsible if hot residue from your fireworks starts a wildland fire and could be held responsible for the cost of putting it out. Consider attending an organized fireworks venue instead of setting off your own."
Anyone interested in observing smoke forecasts can visit FireSmoke.ca to access current and forecast conditions.
To report a wildland fire located north of the French and Mattawa rivers, dial 310-FIRE. To report a forest fire located south of the French or Mattawa rivers, dial 911.
Today we celebrate the renowned mascot of fire prevention, Smokey Bear! Smokey was born August 9, 1944. Today he celebrates his 79th birthday. Happy Birthday Smokey! #SmokeysBirthday #FirePrevention pic.twitter.com/qG9j70ah9k
— Ontario Forest Fires (@ONforestfires) August 9, 2023