Greater Napanee Fire and L&A OPP respond to a fire in the woods along the Napanee River Trail - Photo by Emily Chatwood / MBC News
The Greater Napanee Fire Department is reminding residents that open-air fires remain prohibited on town-owned property following five suspicious fire incidents over the past month.
The town introduced the ban on Oct. 2 to reduce fire risks in parks and public spaces. Fire officials have responded to 20 illegal fires linked to encampments on municipal and private property so far this year.
The ban covers campfires and fires used for cooking, warmth or recreation in public parks and green spaces. Fires on private property are not covered but require a burn permit.
“With the increase in fire-related incidents our Fire Department has responded to this year, I have asked staff to consider additional fire risk reduction measures as part of the 2027 budget process,” said Mayor Terry Richardson. “My commitment is to help ensure our public spaces remain safe for everyone. By taking measures to reduce fire risks, we can better protect residents, municipal property, and neighbouring residential properties located near our parks and public spaces.”
The recent suspicious fires are being investigated by the fire department and Ontario Provincial Police.
The town is asking residents to report suspicious activity involving fires. Anyone facing an immediate threat to public safety should call 911 and avoid approaching fires or confronting people involved.
More information about burning regulations is available on the town’s website.
