South Bruce residents reminded to follow rules on burning
SOUTH BRUCE – Fire Chief Guy Gallant issued a reminder to the public to “burn only what you’re supposed to burn,” in a report to council here April 9.
He told council that last year, three illegal burns turned into structure fires.
Gallant noted burn permits are required for all open air burning. Open air burns done for demolition purposes once structures are down require an onside inspection.He also noted burning garbage is never permitted.
People who conduct burns without permits, if the conditions of the permit are not followed, or if prohibited materials are being burned, may be fined or a fee may be levied.
Open air burn bylaws are on the municipal website.
Fighting EV fires
The Teeswater station was unsuccessful in an application for a $11,186 grant to purchase equipment for fighting electric vehicle (EV) fires (EV plug, fire blankets, EV nozzle kit, aluminum wheel chocks). Gallant explained that with more EVs on the road, fire departments are seeing more EV collisions and fires.
Gallant described fighting an EV fire as “very difficult.” He told council he’s been advised that it’s “better to put out the fire in the car, and just cool the battery,” which takes a lot of water.
Emergency preparedness
“Plan for every season,” is Ontario’s theme for Emergency Preparedness Week 2024 – May 5-May 11. The fire chief told council an Alert Ready test is planned for May 8, at 12:55 p.m.
The week coincides with a military training exercise called “Trillium Venture” being conducted in this area (May 5-7).
Gallant said there will be troops stationed at the Mildmay Recreation Centre and in other area communities. People can expect to see military vehicles and personnel as activities may include mock door-to-door “wellness checks.”
Pauline Kerr, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Walkerton Herald Times
