William Dale
Published online June 17, 2026, at www.pontiacjournal.com
MRC PONTIAC – Outdoor fire-related calls across MRC Pontiac have increased sharply this spring, according to a report from the MRC Pontiac Fire Prevention Service.
Compiled by fire prevention technician Renaud Paquette-Jetten, the report shows
territorial dispatch centres logged 79 outdoor fire-related calls so far this season. That represents a 120 per cent increase over the 36 calls recorded during the same period in 2025 and a 71 per cent increase over the 46 calls reported in 2024. While still below the 105 calls recorded during the exceptional 2023 season, the figures indicate an upward trend over the past two years.
The report identified 12 brush fires this spring, double the three-year regional
average of approximately six calls per season. Forest fire calls were also significantly higher than in previous years. High winds and dry spring conditions contributed to an increase in electrical fires and downed power lines, particularly in the Shawville-Clarendon area and Mansfield.
The report also noted a decline in campfire verifications and open-burning violations, suggesting residents are responding to public safety messaging. Fire prevention officials are encouraging continued caution as summer temperatures rise.
Open burning is prohibited throughout MRC Pontiac from April 1 to Nov. 15, except in compliant residential fire pits equipped with spark arrestors and for propane appliances. The Pontiac Fire Chiefs’ Council may also impose a complete ban on outdoor fires when conditions warrant. Such a ban was implemented from June 4 – 9 but has since been lifted thanks to significant rainfall.
Municipal permits are required for consumer fireworks throughout the MRC. Burning permits are also required for outdoor fire pits in Bryson, Clarendon and Portage-du-Fort.
For information on fire pit regulations or to report a hazard, residents can contact the Fire Prevention Service at 819-648-5689, ext. 127, or by email at prevention@mrc
pontiac.qc.ca.
