All three municipalities surrounding Orillia have issued fire bans.
Today, Oro-Medonte Township Fire Chief Hugh Murray issued a fire ban for the entire township "due to a lack of precipitation and extremely dry conditions."
Because of that ban, outdoor fires or use of fireworks are not permitted throughout the township until further notice from the fire chief’s office.
Yesterday, Severn Township also announced a fire ban throughout their jurisdiction, citing the same reasons.
Ramara Township was the first in the region to implement the ban. Last Friday, a massive blaze, that was believed to be sparked by lightning, consumed 225 acres of land near Lake Dalrymple. Ramara firefighters continue to keep their eyes open for hot spots.
Ramara Township Fire Chief Dave McCarthy said the fire danger rating is extreme.
“The conditions are very bad and continue to worsen daily,” he said. “I have seen this in years past, but typically later in the season.”
The tinder dry grass and vegetation can quickly catch fire, officials warn, noting a single spark could ignite a fire that can quickly rage out of control.
There is no city-wide ban in Orillia. However, there is an open-air burning bylaw that outlines when and where you can burn on your property and officials urge people to use extreme caution due to the conditions.
- With files from Raymond Bowe
Link to original article in Orillia Matters.com: Fire bans now in effect in Oro-Medonte, Severn and Ramara