The Municipalities of Huron-Kinloss, Kincardine and Saugeen Shores have declared an fire ban due to lack of rainfall and forecasted hot, dry conditions.
The area in Huron-Kinloss protected by the Lucknow Fire Department is under a total fire ban. Camp fires and open-air burning are not allowed.
Kincardine, Saugeen Shores and the area of Huron-Kinloss protected by the Ripley-Huron Fire Department are restricting agricultural burns, brush pile burns and any burn that is greater than one metre in diameter. Residents are allowed to have recreational fires in outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, and camp fires.
Municipal bylaws have set fines and surcharges for those found to be in violation of the ban.
The open-air fire ban is in effect until further notice.
Recreational fires must be small and contained. Regulations require that recreational fires be smaller than one metre in diameter.
Never leave your fire unattended and always have means of extinguishment available to put the fire out.
If you discover a fire, it is very important that you report fires immediately by calling 911.
Residents are encouraged to use the following tips to prevent grass and brush fires:
Clear all combustible materials such as tree limbs, leaves and other dry materials away from buildings and propane tanks.
Keep barbecue propane tanks at least three metres from buildings.
Wood piles should be stored a safe distance from your home.
Trees should be pruned to create a good vertical separation from the ground.
Clear out any accumulated dry or dead debris from your property.
Cigarettes: Carelessly discarded cigarettes continue to be a major cause of grass fires during these dry periods. Smokers are reminded to please use care when butting out. Do not throw lit cigarettes out vehicle windows.
Take care when refuelling equipment, and avoid idling hot engines over or near dry vegetation.
Anyone with questions regarding the open-air fire ban, should contact their local fire department.
Link to original article in Kincardine News.com: Fire ban put in place for Kincardine, Huron-Kinloss and Saugeen Shores