It’s almost time to switch over to the seasonal ban on daytime fires.
Madawaska Valley Fire Chief Corwin Quade says on April 1, fires will only be permitted between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., and fires must be kept small, around 2 feet by 2 feet in size.
Anything larger than this requires a permit, and the fine for burning during the day or without a permit is $615.
Only burning clean wood is permitted.
Quade also said there is a complete ban on fires of any kind within the village of Barry’s Bay.
He added the department is preparing for a busy wildfire season similar to last year, and they are starting to test their equipment and identify anything new that might be needed.
The department has received funding through the Ontario Fire Protection grant over the last couple of years.
Quade said that went towards equipment to keep their gear clean.
After a big fire last year that spread more than 100 acres in four days, the department are educating the public about how quickly a fire can spread.