Cottagers and Residents Urged to be Cautious While Burning Despite End of Ban
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Cottagers and Residents Urged to be Cautious While Burning Despite End of Ban
Date: 05/15/2015
As in previous years, the municipality introduced the burn ban for the entire month of April to help prevent grass fires caused by dry vegetation. (The 30-day ban excluded those with agricultural or special burn permits as special conditions apply in these situations.)
Under section 8.03 of the City of Kawartha Lakes by-law, those who start a fire during a burn ban can be charged under the Provincial Offences Act. They will also be responsible for the costs the fire department incurs to extinguish the fire.
In April, the ground may appear saturated – or perhaps even blanketed with snow in some parts – but the southern swathe of the Kawartha Lakes can be completely arid.
Dry grass and debris catch fire easily, and flames spread quickly. By late April, vegetation has greened up, and the grass fire risk falls dramatically.
Each year, City of Kawartha Lakes firefighters respond to several unnecessary and preventable grass fires in April. These fires are dangerous for residents, cottagers, and firefighters. And the cost to respond to these fires also strains the fire department’s budget. The April burn ban helps to reduce risks and avoid the unnecessary costs associated with these fires.
In early May, the City of Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue set the fire index signs at extreme until conditions improve. You are asked to stay with fires and make sure they are put out completely after you are finished burning. Although the ban ended two weeks ago, it’s always important to follow safe practices when burning.
For details on open-air burning and burn permits, please visit: www.city.kawarthalakes.on.ca/residents/emergency-services/fire/the-rules/burning
Photo courtesy of Christopher Woo No Alterations Made - Creative Commons
