- A full ban on all open-air burning is now in effect in Whitchurch-Stouffville.
- The ban covers recreational campfires and suspends all active burn permits.
- Local fire chiefs across York Region issued the order due to hot, dry conditions.
- WSFES says the measure protects lives, property, and firefighters’ safety.
- Residents are urged to comply until the ban has been lifted.
A temporary ban on all open-air burning is now in place across Whitchurch-Stouffville. The order, announced today under the Town’s open-air burning bylaw and the Provincial Fire Protection and Prevention Act, prohibits all outdoor burning, including recreational campfires.
The ban will remain in place until weather and ground conditions improve, and any active burn permits have been suspended until the ban is lifted.
The move comes as hot, dry conditions further increase the risk of fast-spreading fires, as have occurred in the Kawarthas region in recent days. Local fire chiefs across York Region jointly enacted the ban.
Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire and Emergency Services (WSFES) said the measure is intended to protect lives, property, and the health of firefighters who respond to preventable fire incidents. WSFES will announce when the ban has been lifted via their Facebook and Twitter accounts.
“We strongly urge all residents to stay informed about the ongoing situation and exercise caution during this period of heightened fire risk,” WSFES said in a statement. “We kindly request the cooperation of all residents and stakeholders in adhering to this temporary ban.”
Cover image taken by R.D. Smith
