The Chatham-Kent fire department is taking precautions and responding to the spread of COVID-19.
A letter by CK Fire Chief Chris Case on Wednesday evening stresses that no disruptions to emergency services have occurred, however, the fire department has decided to temporarily modify some of its non-emergency services.
The following measures will take place effective immediately:
-No visitors will be allowed at CK fire halls or administration. Only on-duty staff will be permitted at these facilities.
-The fire department has implemented screening, cleaning and social distancing protocols wherever possible.
-No in-person open-air burn or recreational campfire applications will be accepted. Anyone seeking these applications is asked to access the forms online at chatham-kent.ca
-All non-essential fire prevention, in-person fire inspections, booking of fire extinguisher training, station tours and community fire safety programming is unavailable until further notice.
"The following information is intended to update the public on Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Service’s operational response to the COVID-19 pandemic," said Case. "Based on information provided by our federal, provincial and municipal governments, we are taking all precautions necessary to limit our non-essential activities, as these actions will work to reduce the impact on our emergency response capabilities."
During this time, Case is also urging homeowners to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check the batteries and replace them when necessary.
Any with any questions about the changes or about fie safety is asked to call the Chatham-Kent fire department directly at 519-360-1998.