Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services has responded to an influx of brush fires this month, fire officials say.
Crews were called out 15 times over the weekend and have attended 40 brush fires since March 1st.
All burn permits are currently active, however CKFES is strongly encouraging residents to use extreme caution while burning and reminding everyone no open burn – agricultural or recreational – can be left unattended, fire officials say.
Burning must always be done in a safe manner and must comply with the Chatham-Kent Open Air Burning Fires By-law (107-2016).
“We have seen a significant increase in calls over the past week due to the dry weather,” stated Fire Chief Chris Case, in a media release.
“Our crews have dealt with some large and at times fast moving fires to protect their community. We are asking for the public’s help to keep this risk at a minimum and be vigilant as to how easy a fire can start and in these conditions and how fast it can travel.”
Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services is asking residents not to dispose of light cigarette butts off balconies or out car windows.
Also, please extinguish fires completely before leaving unattended, fire officials say.
For more information, contact the Municipality of Chatham-Kent at 519-360-1998.
