With the exception of small campfires in Mapleton Township only, a total open air burn ban remains in place for Wellington County, despite rainfall last week.
Minto Fire Chief Chris Harrow stated in a July 15 email that chiefs across the county agreed to keep the ban in place for now.
“The burn ban is not going to be lifted until conditions are less dry. Conditions are still favorable for grass fires at this point,” Harrow stated last Friday. “We will be reassessing it next week to see if conditions change.”
Earlier Friday, the Township of Mapleton announced small campfires, less than a metre in size, would be permitted under certain conditions.
Campfires shall be no larger than three feet or one metre in size and:
– should not be left unattended and must be thoroughly extinguished before leaving the site; and
– have sufficient water/other fire retardant equipment available to keep the campfire under control.
Those having campfires are directed to douse campfires with water when finished and stir the ashes with a stick or shovel to allow the water to soak in and cool the ashes and the ground.
Fines are in place for those found to be in violation.
The Wellington County burn ban, in place since July 5, still applies to all other open burns, stressed Mapleton Fire Chief Rick Richardson in a press release.
“If you discover a fire in the open, it is very important that you report fires immediately to 911,” the release states, adding Mapleton Fire Rescue will continue to watch weather forecasts and conditions. “Please stay tuned to the township’s website and watch for updates on Facebook.”
The press release also advises anyone with questions or possible exceptions to contact their local fire department.
