Stouffville Implements Open-Air Burning Ban

The Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, in accordance with local municipal by-law and the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, has announced a temporary ban on all open-air burning, including recreational fires, within its jurisdiction, effective immediately and until further notice.

This proactive measure has been implemented to safeguard the community's property and public safety, as well as to ensure the well-being of our dedicated firefighters who tirelessly respond to incidents caused by unauthorized burning activities. The ban will remain in effect until conditions permit safe burning practices. The burn ban has been issued across York Region by local Fire Chiefs. This ban is necessary given the current forest fires in Ontario and Quebec, the hot and dry conditions which can cause fire to spread fast and the deteriorating air-quality.

The current Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for Stouffville is set at high risk.  Based on this level, the province recommends residents to consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation. At-risk residents, such as children and the elderly should take extra caution with outdoor activities.

When air quality is poor, York Region Public Health recommends residents:

  • Check on people in your care and those around you who may be more susceptible to smoke.
  • If you have an HVAC system in your home, set the fan to recirculate the air constantly and keep your doors and windows closed if the temperature in your home is comfortable.

Given the ongoing seasonal crop harvesting, farmers are strongly urged to exercise utmost caution while operating equipment, as field fires have the potential to rapidly engulf equipment, neighboring crops, and even spread to adjacent woodlands. We encourage farmers to prioritize safety and remain vigilant to prevent any fire-related incidents.

In the event that you witness an open-air burn, we urge you to report it immediately by calling 9-1-1. It is crucial not to delay reporting while attempting to control or extinguish the fire independently. Your swift action will greatly assist our emergency services in mitigating any potential risks and minimizing the impact of such incidents.

As part of the ban, all active burn permits are hereby suspended, and no new permits will be issued until the ban is lifted. We kindly request the cooperation of all residents and stakeholders in adhering to this temporary ban. Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire & Emergency Services non-emergency (WSFES) is available to address any inquiries related to the burn ban. Please reach out to WSFES if you require further information or clarification at (905) 640-9595.

WSFES emphasizes the importance of community-wide compliance with the burn ban. By doing so, we collectively ensure the safety of ourselves, our neighbors, and the entire Whitchurch-Stouffville community. We strongly urge all residents to stay informed about the ongoing situation and exercise caution during this period of heightened fire risk.

For additional updates or announcements regarding the open-air burning ban, please visit the Town’s website and Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire and Emergency Services Facebook and Twitter.

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