Fire danger set to extreme, total fire ban now in place

UPDATE at 2 p.m., May 30, 2023 – Along with Muskoka, a total fire ban is also now in effect for Kearney, Township of Perry, Ryerson, Armour, Town of Burks Falls, and Magnetawan and McMurrich/Montieth.

The whole country is experiencing various levels of dry conditions, and major wildfires are burning. Conditions are becoming drier each day that passes in Ontario with the sunny, warm weather. The Muskoka Fire Chiefs have moved the forest fire danger rating to EXTREME and a TOTAL FIRE BAN is now in effect, for the District of Muskoka.

Some fire departments in Muskoka have responded to out-of-control grass/brush fires this week. The weather forecast is not expected to produce any significant precipitation and it’s anticipated that conditions will continue to become dryer in our area.

No open-air fires or fireworks are permitted. In addition, extra caution should be taken when using any equipment/tools that may produce heat.

• Consider using methods other than grinding tools and hot works outdoors
• Do not drive any type of vehicle through long grass/brush as hot exhausts and engines can ignite dry ground cover
• Dispose of cigarette butts and joints in metal containers and/or water
• Additional care should be taken when using propane appliances such as barbeques. A responsible person should always monitor these appliances while they’re in use.

For complete information on burning in your municipality please check with your local municipal office at:

The Muskoka Fire Danger Rating is determined using the Fire Weather Index (FWI), an internationally used method for determining the risk of fires in open air. It uses factors such as the relative humidity, temperature, previous 24-hour rain amount, wind directions and wind speed in combination with the forest fuel type and loads to determine the risk of the forest to certain fire types. From this calculation the Forest Fire Danger Rating is made in consultation with the Fire Chiefs of the six area municipalities and the Ministry of Natural Resources.

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