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Fire danger rating reaches ‘high’ rating, New Tecumseth Fire Department urges caution

July 25, 2025   ·   0 Comments

By BRIAN LOCKHART

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Recent hot weather and accompanying dry conditions have moved the local fire danger rating level to ‘high.’

This means fires can start easily from small sources like grass or debris, and can spread rapidly.

This is especially dangerous when conditions are windy.

The New Tecumseth Fire Department is urging residents to be extremely cautious with any open flames.

You should always follow the guidelines on a burn permit.

A Town bylaw states that “no person shall set a fire or permit a fire in the Town of New Tecumseth without first obtaining the necessary fire permit.” The exception is if burning consists of a small, confined fire supervised at all times and used to cook food on a grill or barbecue.

If you have been issued a burn permit for a recreational/outdoor fire, rules that must be followed.

These include setting a fire only between sunrise and 11 p.m., keeping the fire at least 15 metres from any structure or property line, and having sufficient equipment and resources available at the burn site to extinguish the fire in case the fire gets out of control and causes an adverse effect.

The holder of the permit must attend the fire at all times until completely extinguished. The contained fire must be no larger than one metre in diameter, and shall not be located under any tree, wires, or other overhead obstruction.

There are more regulations for fires in rural and agricultural areas to keep things safe and avoid causing harm or discomfort to neighbouring properties. 

Keep on top of current announcements by the Fire Department.

The fire chief may declare an Open Air Burning Ban at any time when, in the opinion of the fire chief or their designate, it is in the best interest of public safety.

The current fire rating will remain in effect until it is deemed that conditions have changed enough that the rating may be lowered to ‘moderate’ or ‘low.’

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