While the Bancroft fire department says the risk of bush fires is low at this time, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is saying conditions are dry enough in some regions for those fires. Due to the thaw exposing patches of grass, the MNRF has been warning that winds will dry out already dead grass exposed. This can result in perfect fuel for a fire to start. Some of these fires have already started in Western Ontario.
Bancroft Fire Department says there is a heightened risk in some areas that have dead grass exposed. They urge residents to dispose of ashes in a metal container or soak them in water to avoid grass fires. The Department says if any resident is burning brush at this time, they are responsible for the outcome of that fire.
The department wishes to remind people that coming up April 1st, a daytime burn ban will be put in place to kick off the summer season.