A burn ban has been issued for all agricultural and recreational fires across Chatham-Kent.
Effective as of Thursday afternoon, Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue said all fire permits have been suspended until further notice under a municipal bylaw.
Fire officials said the ban has been issued due to current dry conditions, lack of rain in the forecast and the continuing air quality concerns.
A special air quality statement was issued for Chatham-Kent on Tuesday by Environment Canada with smoke plumes from forest fires in Quebec and Northeastern Ontario causing deteriorated air quality in the region.
During the burn ban, approved burning devices such as gas fire tables, chimineas and contained fireboxes no larger than 24 inches will be permitted.
“If you are using an approved device, please do so responsibly and ensure the unit is located in an area that will not pose a risk for fire spread,” the fire department said in a news release.
The ban will remain in place while fire officials monitor the situation.
