Belleville Fire and Emergency Services have downgraded the total burn ban issued on Aug. 11 to a partial burn ban effective immediately, in accordance with the Open-Air Burning By-law.
A partial ban is a period of time during which the Fire Chief declares that open-air burning is restricted to the use of campfires, outdoor fireplaces and cooking devices only.
Brush fires and agricultural fires are strictly prohibited during this time. Campfires and outdoor fireplaces continue to require a burn permit.
The partial burn ban will be in effect until further notice.
Residents are urged to use extreme caution when burning during this time. City of Belleville officials provide the following fire safety rules and tips when burning:
· Obtain a burn permit before having a campfire or using an outdoor fireplace.
· Only have a campfire or use an outdoor fireplace between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m.
· Contain campfires within an area of noncombustible metal, masonry. ceramic or stone, or in a pit in the ground.
· Outdoor fireplaces must have a spark screen or cover with a maximum opening of 13mm.
· Keep any combustible materials a safe distance from a campfire or fireplace and ensure vegetation around the fire is as low as possible.
· Have an adequate water supply or fire extinguisher to contain or extinguish the fire.
· Never leave a fire unattended.
· Ensure a fire is fully extinguished before leaving it.
For further questions or concerns, please contact Fire Prevention at fireprevention@belleville.ca or call 613-962-2010.
