Brock forbids use of barbecues in parks

Brock forbids use of barbecues in parks

by The Standard | Podcast July 23rd, 2020 https://thestandardnewspaper.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Barbecue-Change-July-23rd-2020-Podcast.wav

DAN CEARNS, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, for The Standard

BROCK: The Township of Brock has moved to prohibit the use of barbecues in township parks. At a special council meeting on Thursday, July 16th, councillors saw a report from Clerk Becky Jamieson recommending a change to the township’s parks bylaw. “The use of [barbecues] in parks is becoming more common and presents safety risks for numerous reasons. As a result, staff are recommending that the by-law be amended to prohibit [barbecues] in parks.” Previously, the bylaw only prohibited having fires in a park, and did not specifically address barbecue usage. Mayor Debbie Bath-Hadden echoed the concern for safety of residents in parks. “We did have one incident a few weeks ago where a garbage can did catch fire at one of our beaches, and that caused us a bit of concern. We are seeing a lot of tourists who are coming into the area, who, rightly so, are bringing their lunches with them. But barbecues seem to be somewhat of a concern right now.” The Mayor pointed to recent news at a Toronto beach. “In the wee hours of the morning, a toddler and her mother were on a beach in Toronto, and the toddler experienced burns on her feet due to briquettes being buried under the sand.” Ms. Jamieson’s report stated an individual could use a barbecue in a park for events if the person receives written approval from the township’s fire chief. Council later approved the change to the bylaw.