A total burn ban had been issued yesterday across Brock Township, the Township of Uxbridge, and the Township of Scugog in response to extreme heat, dry weather, and reduced air quality.
In Brock Township, the Brock Fire Department announced the immediate ban on all open-air burning, including recreational, open-air, and agricultural fires. “No open-air burning of any kind is permitted during this time,” the township stated. Residents were advised the ban would remain in effect until further notice.
In Uxbridge, the Uxbridge Fire Department also implemented a fire ban on June 23. The ban in Uxbridge includes burn barrels, outdoor fireplaces, cooking fires, and fire pits. Portable outdoor fire appliances are not approved for use in the township at any time. Residents may continue to use barbecues. While no new fire permits will be issued during the ban, existing permit holders must continue to call 905-852-9038 before burning—once the ban is lifted.
Meanwhile, Scugog Fire Services issued a municipal-wide ban with zero tolerance for burning. Violations may result in charges under the Provincial Offences Act and responsibility for any Fire Service response costs, as outlined in the township’s Open-Air Burning By-law 32-18.
“Effective today, a burn ban has been put in place for the Township of Scugog to help reduce the risk to residents, firefighters, and property,” said Fire Chief Mike Matthews. “With the high heat conditions, risk of fires increasing due to dry conditions and the effects of the smoke from the ongoing wildfires across Canada, we will have this in place until further notice when conditions improve.”
Scugog residents are reminded that burn barrels, fire pits, and other backyard fire devices are not permitted during the ban. However, CSA- or ULC-listed appliances that use propane, natural gas, charcoal, or electricity are still allowed.
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