Planning a fire? You better have one of these

The season of grass fires is upon us so be sure to burn carefully, even with a permit, says fire services

File photo

NEWS RELEASE
SAULT STE MARIE FIRE SERVICES
*************************
Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services encourages the public to use caution when burning. With the spring season finally upon us, there is an increased potential for grass fires.

With grass and brush starting to dry out, it is very easy for fire to spread uncontrollably with a little bit of wind. Unattended burning is the most common cause of grass fires. Burning carelessly along with improperly discarding cigarette butts can pose hazards.

An “Open-Air Burn Permit” must be obtained to conduct open air fires in Sault Ste. Marie. Open fires are only permitted in approved areas by a Fire Prevention Officer. Permits are available online, or may be obtained in person at the Fire Station #1, 72 Tancred Street, Sault Ste. Marie, ON, between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. from Monday through Friday.

A Fire Prevention Officer will perform a site inspection (a non-refundable inspection fee applies), at which time conditions for approval will be reviewed.

Upon approval by a Fire Prevention Officer, an open-air burning permit is issued. Once the permit expires, it is the owner's responsibility to renew the permit.Failure to obtain or renew an open-air burn permit may result in a fine.

Fire Prevention Officers currently schedule inspections for Tuesdays and Fridays. A permit will not be issued unless the homeowner agrees to allow the Fire Prevention Officer to check the home's smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

For more detailed information about open-air burn permits, please contact Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services at (705) 949-9898.

*************************

What's next?