Residents in Chatham-Kent will no longer be allowed to pass the time while sitting around a campfire.
Recreational burn permits are suspended, effective immediately.
“This is an early notification of action we will be taking today to continue our efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19,” said Fire Chief Chris Case in a statement. “It’s coming to the time of year when we see an increase in fire pit calls. The suspension is in place to protect the community, by seeking to reduce the potential for gatherings and to protect first responders from any possible exposure.”
On March 28, the provincial government ordered that social gatherings of more than five people be prohibited.
Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services said the ban will be implemented under section 7.1 of the bylaw, ‘The fire chief official or designate may issue a burn ban on any or all open-air fires or may suspend without recourse any or all burn permits."
Recreational burn permits will be suspended for 28 days as local officials wait for direction from provincial and federal levels of government. As a result, permits for recreational fires, campfires and fire pits will not be sold during this time. Residents who currently have a permit for 2020 will be able to extend the expiration date by 28 days.
Fire officials said restrictions will not be placed on agricultural fires in order to support local farmers.
Residents with questions or concerned about the current burn ban are asked to contact customer service at 519-360-1998.