More municipalities in the region have issued fire bans, outlawing all non-essential fires until further notice.
This action is being taken as a result of the weeks-long period of dry, hot weather in the region. In these conditions, fire can spread quickly and uncontrollably, leading to events like the wildfires happening in Northern Ontario and Quebec.
In the Township of Chatsworth, all "campfires, agricultural burns and open-air burning of any kind" have been prohibited until further notice.
The same rules are also in place for the Municipality of West Grey.
For Chatsworth and West Grey residents, all Burn Permits are suspended from Wednesday until the ban is lifted.
The Town of Hanover also issued a ban on Wednesday that covers all campfires and recreational fires and all types of fireworks and is in place until further notice. Fire permits that have been issued for 2023 are suspended until the temporary fire ban has been lifted.
In Georgian Bluffs, all campfires, open-air burning, firework displays, and use of outdoor fire appliances are prohibited, effective immediately.
The only acceptable fires will be those for cooking, and only in situations where no other appliances are available - such as camping. The township said fires of this kind must be extinguished as soon as cooking is complete.
"We kindly request the cooperation of all residents, visitors, and businesses within the Township of Georgian Bluffs to adhere to this fire ban until further notice," a statement from the township said. "It is essential to take every precaution necessary to prevent the outbreak of fires and protect our community."
The Inter Township Fire Department is monitoring the situation along with five other fire services in the area. If you have any questions about the fire ban, please contact the fire department at 519-376-9933 or visit their website at www.georgianbluffs.ca/fire.
