Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service Urges Residents to Burn Responsibly Amid High Fire Risk
Kawartha Lakes – With record-setting heat and a prolonged lack of rainfall continuing across the region, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service is reminding all residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution with any activity that could cause a fire.
Even the smallest spark can ignite a dangerous fire that threatens lives, destroys property, and devastates natural landscapes.
“These are not typical summer conditions,” says Fire Chief Terry Jones. “People must take this seriously. The extreme heat and dry weather mean fires are igniting faster and spreading more aggressively than we’ve seen in recent years.”
The Fire Service is strongly urging the public to:
Avoid burning altogether during this period of hot, dry weather.
Never burn in windy conditions, regardless of burn permit status
Follow all regulations under the Kawartha Lakes Open-Air Burning By-law.
Properly dispose of smoking materials—never flick cigarette butts out car windows or onto the ground.
Use caution with off-road vehicles and farm machinery—hot engines and exhaust systems can ignite dry grass and debris.
Keep a water source or extinguisher nearby if conducting any outdoor work involving tools or heat.
Fireworks handled by trained professionals are the safest way to enjoy fireworks.
As the long weekend approaches, residents are also asked to reconsider the use of fireworks. Fireworks pose a serious ignition risk in dry conditions, and a single misfire can start a fire that quickly spreads out of control. Choosing to forgo fireworks this year could help prevent a dangerous emergency.
“We’re seeing increased fire risks not just from open-air burning, but from equipment, smoking materials, and careless behaviour,” says Fire Prevention Public Educator Katie Dukelow. “The risk is too high to take chances.”
Residents are reminded that violations of the Open-Air Burning By-law can result in fines or full cost recovery for emergency response.
To review the by-law or check the current burn hazard rating, visit www.kawarthalakes.ca/fire
