The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is seeking the public’s help in identifying the individuals responsible for starting two forest fires in northern Ontario.

One fire was located in the Red Squirrel Lake area north of Temagami. Designated as North Bay 44 by the ministry, it was approximately 0.5 hectares at the time of discovery on August 8.

The ministry estimated that the fire was lit between August 5 and 8. The second fire was located on the east side of Obashking Lake, southwest of Wigwam Bay of Lake Nipissing. Known as North Bay 35, it was approximately 0.5 hectares at the time of discovery on August 4.

The ministry estimated that the fire was lit between August 2 and 4. The ministry reminds the public that all forest fires are investigated to determine their cause. A person can be held responsible for the costs of extinguishing a forest fire, as well as for any property damage incurred. Anyone who starts a fire must keep it under control at all times and extinguish it properly before leaving the area.

If you have any information about these incidents, please contact the MNRF TIPS line at 1-877- 847-7667 toll-free any time, or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800- 222-TIPS (8477).