Wildfire Preparedness and Smoke Safety Reminder
- Huron Superior Métis Community
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
With several active fires in the region and the entire Huron-Superior Region remaining at extreme fire risk, the Huron-Superior Regional Métis Community encourages citizens, families, harvesters and land users to take extra care. Please follow all local and provincial burning rules, restrictions and fire safety guidelines to help protect our homes, camps, communities, forests, waterways and traditional territory.
Current Ontario wildfire information and fire danger ratings are available through the province's forest fire updates and interactive fire map. https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-fires
Wildfires and smoke can affect our homes, roads, health, harvesting areas, and community spaces. Now is a good time to make sure your household has an emergency plan, a basic emergency kit, and a way to stay informed if conditions change quickly.
When wildfire smoke is in the air, try to reduce your exposure. Keep windows and doors closed when possible, avoid heavy outdoor activity when the smoke is thick and take breaks indoors when need. Elders, young children, pregnant people, outdoor workers and those with asthma, heart or lung conditions may be more sensitive to smoke. Watch for symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, headaches, sore eyes, or feeling unwell.
Citizens are encouraged to monitor local news, municipal updates, social media, air quality reports and the Ontario Interactive Fire Map. To report a wildfire call 310-FIRE (3473). For road conditions call 511. In an emergency call 911. The MNO Emergency Management webpage also includes helpful resources on emergency planning, evacuation, wildfire preparedness, smoke and health, emergency kits, alerts, and supports available through ONE MNO.
Please take care of one another, check in on Elders, family members, neighbours, and anyone who may need extra support, and visit the MNO Emergency Management webpage to learn more: