City-wide open air fire ban in effect as of April 20, the first of the 2018 season

_ (via Ottawa Fire) _ Ottawa Fire Services is placing a city-wide fire ban into effect immediately to prevent the rapid spread of fire due to grass and brush fires. This ban will remain in place until conditions improve and the green grass starts to show through tall dead grass.

Certain periods in the year create conditions that make even controlled burning dangerous, and this risk can quickly lead to fast and uncontrolled spread of fire. There are a number of conditions that warrant restrictions throughout the year. These circumstances include, but are not limited to: high winds, prolonged dry spells, early spring surface conditions, cut fields or wet conditions that do not allow our firefighting equipment to access remote or rural locations.

All open air fires are prohibited during a fire ban, including for those properties that have an Open Air Fire Permit. This ban applies to agricultural burns, brush pile burns, as well as campfires. There will be zero tolerance enforcement during the fire ban.

We thank area residents for their patience and cooperation with this matter. ** Reduce your risk around the home ** Residents are encouraged to take advantage of weekly yard waste collection and use the following tips to prevent grass and brush fires:

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Clear all combustible materials such as tree limbs, leaves and other dry materials away from buildings and propane tanks.

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Keep barbecue propane tanks at least three metres from buildings.

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Wood piles should be stored a safe distance from your home.

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Trees should be pruned to create a good vertical separation from the ground.

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Clear out any accumulated dry or dead debris from your property.

** Cigarettes ** Carelessly discarded cigarettes continue to be a major cause of grass fires during these dry periods. Smokers are reminded to please use care when butting out. Do not throw lit cigarettes out vehicle windows.