Chatham-Kent suspends permits for recreational fires

Effective immediately, Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services has suspended all permits issued for recreational fires, campfires and fire pits within the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.

This ban will be implemented under section 7.1 of the Bylaw, which states ‘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’, Municipal officials say.

The suspension of recreational permits will be in place for 28 days while officials monitor the situation and await notification from provincial and federal levels of government if community safety controls are to be amended, Municipal officials say.

“This is an early notification of action we will be taking today to continue our efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19,” stated Fire Chief Chris Case, in a media release.

“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.”

During this time, the sale of all permit issued for recreational fires, campfires and fire pits will stop, however the expiration of the any pre-purchased 2020 recreational permits will be extended by 28 days due to the burn ban, Municipal officials say.

There will not be a restrictions on agricultural fires as the Municipality of Chatham-Kent continues to support local farmers, Municipal officials say.

Anyone with questions can contact customer service at 519-360-1998.

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