The Office of the Fire Marshal is advising Ontario residents to check with their local fire department, municipal office, or the Ministry of Natural Resources for any restrictions governing open air burning before starting campfires or burning brush.
“It’s the time of year where people are opening up their cottages and cleaning up the grass or brush,” explained Ontario Fire Marshal Patrick Burke.
“In many municipalities, a permit may be required with specific conditions for burning,” he noted.
Open air burning can include the use of outdoor fireplaces and cooking fires not involving the use of a barbecue.
Some municipalities prohibit the use of various types of outdoor fireplaces, such as chimineas, because there is potential for personal injury, property damage, and increased risk of a grass fire.
“Whether in the backyard of your home, the cottage, or at a campground, make fire safety a priority,” said Burke. “Open air burning, especially if left unattended, can become difficult to control and can result in a serious widespread fire.”
Open air burning is regulated by the Fire Code and is not permitted unless approved by the local chief fire official.
Local fire departments have the right to extinguish any open air burning that has not been approved and that does not meet required burning conditions.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
