Level 1 Fire and Travel restrictions implemented in Manitoba because of high fire danger in southeast of province

WINNIPEG, Manitoba , May 26, 2023 (press release) –

The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises Level 1 Fire and Travel restrictions have been implemented due to high fire danger in the southeast portion of the province.

The boundary of the restricted area is from east of Provincial Road 302, south of the Trans-Canada Highway, west of the Ontario border and north of the U.S. border. The restricted area includes Moose Lake, Birch Point, Marchand and Woodridge provincial parks. Refer to Zone 1 of the Fire and Travel Restriction map found at www.manitoba.ca/wildfire for more information.

Level 1 Fire and Travel restrictions include the following:

• motorized backcountry travel including ATVs and other off-road vehicles is prohibited from noon to 7 p.m.;
• motorized backcountry travel to access a remote cottage via forestry road, private road or trail between noon and 7 p.m. requires a travel permit issued by the Department of Natural Resources and Northern Development;
• industry and outfitters should contact a Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development office for more information; and
• wayside parks remain open.

As a further wildfire prevention measure, provincial burn permits issued under the Wildfires Act in the restricted area are cancelled and will not be issued until fire danger conditions improve. Burn permits for essential agricultural, municipal or industrial operations may be considered with the approval of a conservation officer and will include a site inspection with strict conditions. Contact a Department of Natural Resources and Northern Development office for more information.

Many municipalities have proactively implemented burning restrictions this spring, so refer to local municipal offices or view the interactive Current Municipal Burning Restrictions map at https://www.manitoba.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.html for more information. The province will not issue any burning permits within or in areas bordering any municipality where burning restrictions are already in place.

In areas where ATV use is allowed, riders are reminded to protect against wildfires. Anyone using an ATV is asked to stay on developed trails, ensure the ATV has a working spark arrestor, check areas around the engine and exhaust frequently, and carefully remove and extinguish any debris from these areas. Operators are also reminded to be prepared by carrying a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel.

Sparks from trailer chains, lawnmowers and other outdoor equipment contacting hard surfaces can cause dry cured grasses to ignite. Take precautions, maintain equipment and be aware of hazards in work areas.

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.

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