NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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CITY OF TEMISKAMING SHORES – On May 23, 2016 shortly after 5 p.m., members of the Temiskaming Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were advised that fireworks were being ignited in the bush area of Coleman Township.
A short time later a report of a forest fire in the same area was received. The Coleman Fire Department attended however the fire had grown out of control.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) aviation services were utilized.
The MNRF dispatched a helicopter and water bomber to assist in conjunction with a fire crew. The fire was successfully extinguished.
As a result of this investigation four individuals have been charged under the Forest Fire Prevention Act (FFPA).
- Riley Abernot, 19, of Cobalt is charged under section 30 of the FFPA for leave fireworks unextinguished in forest
- Sam Gilbert, 18, of Coleman is charged under section 30 of the FFPA for leave fireworks unextinguished in forest
- Justin Ingleton, 21, of Kerns is charged under section 30 of the FFPA for leave fireworks unextinguished in forest
- Devin Leveille, 18, of Haileybury is charged under section 30 of the FFPA for leave fireworks unextinguished in forest
Forest fires put our communities, environmental resources, and the public at risk.
Here are some safety tips to remember:
- If you observe a wildfire, call 911 and evacuate your family and pets to a safe location;
- Spring grass fires can be destructive. Seek alternatives by considering composting or using your local landfill;
- Do NOT toss a cigarette out of your vehicle window and ensure that cigarette butts are properly extinguished before being discarded anywhere;
- Assure safe campfire practices;
- You can’t have a fire in a restricted fire zone. This includes all grass and debris burning, campfires, fire places and fire pits;
- Plan fire safety techniques and teach them to your family.
Visit the links provided to view the Forest Fire Information Map, verify any forest fire hazards that may be in your area, and to keep informed of fire safety techniques.
Links:
www.ontario.ca/ministry-natural-resources-and-forestry
www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/forest-fires
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