Douse those outdoor fires. Effective immediately, Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue has suspended all permits issued for both agricultural and recreational fires (campfires) within the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
Municipal officials cite the current dry conditions as the reasoning behind the burn ban, as well as a lack of rain in the immediate forecast, plus the air quality concerns.
“We would like to thank residents for doing their part and for understanding the ban has been put in place to protect our community during the continued dry weather conditions and poor air quality concerns,” assistant fire chief Ken Labonte said in a media release. “Also, thanks to our local farmers and the Kent Federation of Agriculture for support and working with us.”
Officials are expecting the ban will be short in length.
Approved burning devices, such as gas fire tables, chimineas and contained fireboxes no larger than 24 inches in diameter are not included in the suspension.
Anyone with questions can contact customer service at 519-360-1998 or visit ckfire.ca for more information.
