Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, and I’d like to congratulate him on his election here to the Legislature.

Summer in Ontario means that it is also forest fire season. Last year, Ontario faced unprecedented levels of forest fires in terms of the number of fires and in hectares burned. This year’s fire season has been more manageable, due in part to greater snow melt and rainfall in the spring. However, conditions can change quickly, and we need to be able to respond quickly. Forest fires can be devastating for communities, people and the industry. What steps is our government taking to prevent communities across Ontario from the devastating effects that forest fires can bring?

Often, forest fires are started by human activity. We have all seen media coverage of mismanaged fireworks, simply not making sure a campfire is put out—and who can forget that disastrous gender-reveal party in California that started the destructive El Dorado fire, destroying five homes and, sadly, killing a firefighter?

While it might seem like common sense, can the minister provide some advice to Ontarians who are spending time outdoors this season? And what are the risks to those who are irresponsible with fire?

We all have a part to play when it comes to preventing forest fires, and one thing that’s important is good forest management: making sure we have robust forest management plans that don’t leave forests with a lot of excess wood.

To the average person out there, I’d say make sure you’re following municipal fire bans, never leave your campfire unattended and make sure you put it out properly when you’re done. If a person causes a fire, they can be held responsible for the costs of extinguishing that fire or property damage incurred by that fire. With that being said, let’s stay diligent. Let’s keep this fire season a mild one.