Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue is asking the public to use “extreme caution” after responding to a significant increase in brush fires during the last few days amid a period of dry weather.
While all burn permits still are active, CKFR is strongly encouraging residents to use extreme caution while burning, in media release issued Monday afternoon.
CKFR also reminds everyone that no fire, either agricultural or recreational, can be left unattended.
“After quite a long period of warm weather without rain, the ground and brush is very dry, making it much easier for a fire to start and quickly spread,” said Fire Chief Chris Case in the release.
“Our crews have been working hard to contain these fires, but we need our communities help,” he said.
“We are not proposing a burn ban currently, however, we constantly monitor the situation,” Case said. “A burn ban would be our last resort and hope that we can work together to keep everyone safe.”
CKFR is asking residents not to dispose of lit cigarette butts off balconies or out car windows. Residents also are asked to extinguish fires completely before leaving unattended.
Residents also are reminded burning must be done in a safe manner and must comply with the Chatham-Kent Open Air Burning Fires Bylaw (107-2016).