Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue has responded to a significant increase in brush fires over the last few days.
All burn permits are currently active, however, CKFR is strongly encouraging residents to use extreme caution while burning and reminding everyone no open burn – agricultural or recreational – can be left unattended. Burning must always be done in a safe manner and must comply with the Chatham-Kent Open Air Burning Fires By-law (107-2016).
“After quite a long period of warm weather, without rain the ground and brush is very dry, making it much easier for a fire to start and quickly spread,” explains Fire Chief Chris Case. “Our crews have been working hard to contain these fires, but we need our community's help. We are not proposing a burn ban currently, however, we constantly monitor the situation. A burn ban would be our last resort and hope that we can work together to keep everyone safe.”
CKFR is asking residents not to dispose of lit cigarette butts off balconies or out car windows. Also, please extinguish fires completely before leaving them unattended.
For more information, contact the Municipality of Chatham-Kent at 519-360-1998.
