‘Extreme’ risk of bushfires leads to fire ban in Caledon

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Published June 1, 2023 at 2:14 pm

Fire fighters battle a grass fire in Brampton in this file photo. (Brampton Fire and Emergency Services)

A lack of moisture and dry conditions have led to an open-air fire ban in Caledon as officials say there’s an “extreme” fire risk in the area.

The town says the temporary ban on open-air fires will come into effect on Friday (June 2) at 8 a.m. and will be in place until further notice. The ban applies to all open-air fires, including agricultural and recreational fires.

The fire hazard rating for Caledon is being raised to “Extreme” and the Town is warning that any violations can result in a minimum fine of $245 and a minimum fee of more than $670 per fire truck per hour, and additional charges to cover firefighting costs.

“The lack of precipitation and extremely dry conditions combined means firefighting operations on grass, brush, bush and outdoor fires could be extremely dangerous for firefighters and may place properties at a high risk of loss,” the Town said in a statement.

Conditions will be monitored over the weekend and Caledon said an update will be provided on Monday. In the meantime, residents can check for updates online at www.Caledon.ca/BurnPermits.

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