All types of open fires are completely banned, including outdoor firepits with spark screens, throughout the region covered by the Mont-Tremblant Fire Department (SSIMT) as of noon today, Friday, May 6, until further notice.
The ban is applicable throughout the entire Mont-Tremblant region, as well as all of the neighbouring municipalities covered by the SSIMT, including: Amherst, Arundel, Barkmere, Brébeuf, Huberdeau, La Conception, La Minerve, Lac-Supérieur, Lac-Tremblant-Nord, Mont-Blanc and Montcalm.
This decision was made due to a high risk of bush and forest fires this weekend and throughout the next week. The particularly high drought rate coupled with low precipitation over the short and mid-term threaten the loss of property, forests and human life in the event of a wildland fire.
Only fireplaces fueled by propane or natural gas will be permitted until the ban is lifted.
The SSIMT is counting on everyone's cooperation in the affected areas to help ensure the safety of the population and the protection of the forest: "Having a campfire secretly right now is the worst idea you could have. Please consider the serious consequences that could arise if you lose control of the fire, which would be anything but fun. I'm sure you don't want to be the one responsible for starting a forest fire with tragic consequences. Summer is coming. You will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a campfire. But until then, please be responsible!" said Mathieu Darmana, Director of the Mont-Tremblant Fire Department.
Mr. Darmana also congratulated the responsible decision and solidarity of the neighbouring municipalities who responded positively to Mont-Tremblant's request to ban campfires in their respective areas.