WELLINGTON COUNTY – Wellington County fire departments have lifted a partial fire ban in the municipalities of Minto, Mapleton, Wellington North, Centre Wellington, Erin, Puslinch and Guelph/Eramosa.
“Burn permits are now available to be issued or are now valid if already issued,” states a June 16 press release from the county’s seven fire departments.
The ban was initially put in place on June 7, following several weeks of extremely dry conditions, and lifted effective June 16.
During the ban, small recreational campfires were allowed but agricultural, brush pile and other burns were prohibited.
“We thank residents for their patience and cooperation with this matter,” the release states.
“Residents are still encouraged to take every precaution to prevent brush and grass fires.”
Recommended precautions include:
- keep all combustible materials such as tree limbs, leaves and other dry materials away from buildings and propane tanks and keeping tanks at least three metres from buildings;
- store wood piles a safe distance from homes;
- prune trees to create a good vertical separation from the ground;
- clear out any accumulated dry or dead debris from properties; and
- dispose of cigarettes safely.
“Carelessly discarded cigarettes continue to be a major cause of grass fires during these dry periods,” the release states.
“Do not throw lit cigarettes out vehicle windows.”
For more information, residents are urged to contact their local fire department.
