Kawartha Lakes prepares for spring with burn index change

DAN CEARNS, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: With spring season beginning, and the local community having seen warmer temperatures recently, Kawartha Lakes has changed their fire hazard rating.

“Kawartha Lakes has set the current fire hazard rating to Extreme, at the discretion of Fire Chief [Mark] Pankhurst, due to the current weather being experienced,” read a press release from the City of Kawartha Lakes.

In a statement, Chief Pankhurst explained why the decision was made.

“As the snow continues to melt, conditions across the municipality vary and it’s important to take precaution[s] now as a preventative measure.”

The City recommends any burning done during this time “should be restricted and monitored closely.” Those who choose to burn things during this time are asked to “keep the area around the fire damp.”

The City also announced they would be beginning their annual burn ban on Thursday, April 1st.

“During the burn ban, all permits except for agricultural and special permits will be included in the ban,” the press release explained. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row] [/et_pb_section]

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