Fire departments across the region are beginning to implement or consider tougher burn bans
In Carlow/Mayo Township south of Madawaska Valley, a total burn ban has been put in place, effective immediately. Dwayne Meharrie, Fire Safety Officer for the Township, says the ban is due to the forecast calling for three weeks of hot weather, high humidity, and little precipitation. No fires of any kind, even two-foot-squared campfires will be allowed during this time. Meharrie says gas barbeques are allowed, but only if they have a gas valve in case of emergencies. Due to its size, Carlow/Mayo Township does not issue fire permits.
In Madawaska Valley, Fire Chief Corwin Quade says there is a chance a total fire ban could come as soon as next week. Currently, all open-air burning is banned aside from two-foot-square campfires and gas barbeques, and burn permits are suspended. Quade also believes the upcoming hot weather will bring fire risks up to their highest level. The department has responded to seven calls over the last seven days, which included a wildfire that burnt a half-acre and calls from inside the town limits of Barry’s Bay. Quade reminds residents that burning within the village’s limits is illegal.