Urgent Burn Ban Enforced in Waterloo Region’s Townships

UPDATE: A strict burn ban is now in effect across the townships of North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich as of today, following a period of extreme heat and dry conditions. This urgent measure means that all existing fire permits are suspended until further notice, and no new permits will be issued.

The ban directly affects campgrounds and recreational areas, highlighting the serious risk associated with open flames. As stated in a joint announcement from local authorities, “The ban prohibits all fires except those set for the sole purpose of cooking food in a contained fire pit. Cooking fires should be attended constantly and extinguished completely after use.”

Failure to adhere to the ban could lead to significant penalties, including charges and fees for fire department intervention if unauthorized burns occur. Officials emphasize the seriousness of this situation as hot and dry conditions persist.

Temperatures are expected to soar above 30 C throughout the weekend, with little hope of relief in sight. The Environment Canada forecast indicates only a 30 percent chance of rain on Friday, leaving residents and officials alike concerned about the ongoing fire risk.

Authorities warn that if these conditions continue, a full fire ban may be implemented, which would mean even cooking fires could be prohibited. This situation is particularly alarming for local residents who may rely on outdoor cooking during the summer.

As the community grapples with these restrictions, officials urge everyone to remain vigilant. “We appreciate the cooperation of our residents during this challenging time,” they stated, reinforcing the need for safety and compliance with the burn ban.

Stay tuned for further updates as conditions evolve. The safety of the community depends on everyone following the rules set forth to mitigate fire hazards during this critical time.