On April 2nd, the Province of Ontario implemented a fire ban in the Fire Region of Ontario to protect the public from the risk of human caused fires, and to focus the Province’s first responder system where they are needed the most to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Although located outside the Province’s Fire Region, the Municipality of Meaford is following the Province’s lead and effective immediately, an open air fire ban is in effect until further notice.

The open air fire ban includes all burning, including grass, debris and campfires, even when using an outdoor fire grate, fire place or fire pit. The ban includes fire permit holders. Any portable appliance that uses gas or propane and is intended for cooking food such as a barbecue is still permitted.

With the Grey Bruce Health Unit identifying community spread in our area, our priority is to limit the risk of exposure in the community and among our fire family. Every instance of human interaction poses a risk.

“Our firefighters are on the front line of this pandemic as they respond to all types of emergencies while trying to control the spread” said Fire Chief John deHooge. “By obeying the fire ban you are showing support for our firefighters and our community in ensuring that your firefighters can focus on life threatening responses. Help us, so we can help you battle COVID-19.”

source: media release, Meaford