Latest news with #grassfires


BBC News
3 days ago
- Climate
- BBC News
Wildfire prevention urged by London Fire Brigade after dry spring
Fire breaks should be introduced to open areas to prevent wildfires this summer, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) has is likely to be one of the driest on record, according to the Met Office, and landowners and councils are being asked to play their part to reduce the under half of the capital is considered to be green space, many of which lie next to homes and breaks can be created by removing grass or ploughing earth to exclude any flammable vegetation, forming a barrier that prevents the easy spread of flames. LFB's deputy commissioner Charlie Pugsley said grass fires could spread particularly rapidly, as seen in the capital as well as worldwide in California and South 2022, London experienced record-breaking temperatures and long periods of dry weather that resulted in some of the most severe wildfires the city has ever had. James St John Davis, from the City of London Corporation's natural environment board, said: "As custodians of some of London's most iconic open spaces, we manage complex landscapes that are often right next to people's homes where the threat of wildfire is very real."We reduce risk through seasonal grass cutting, natural fire breaks, and widespread staff training to respond swiftly, often before emergency crews arrive. This year we've also invested in three new fire fogging units to tackle contained fires, such as those caused by barbecues." Grass fires can be prevented by avoiding the use of disposable BBQs in parks and open spaces, ensuring cigarettes are put out completely and disposed of correctly, and taking rubbish home if no bins are can also help by maintaining their gardens by preventing them becoming overgrown.


CTV News
21-05-2025
- Climate
- CTV News
Unauthorized burning sparks safety concerns in North Bay
The City of North Bay is urging residents to avoid unauthorized outdoor burning after multiple grass fires in recent weeks threatened public safety and property. Multiple fires over the past few weeks 'Over the past few weeks, our crews have responded to multiple grass fires caused by illegal burning,' the city said, in a public service announcement issued Wednesday. 'These fires have spread quickly due to dry conditions and wind, coming dangerously close to homes, businesses, and forested areas.' No injuries have been reported, but officials warn the risk remains high. Under city bylaws and the Ontario Fire Code, burning grass or yard waste is prohibited without a permit, and violators may face fines or charges. 'We ask for your cooperation in keeping our community safe. If you see smoke or suspect illegal burning, please report it immediately by calling 911,' the city said. Municipal officials emphasized that fire prevention is a shared responsibility. 'Let's work together to prevent needless emergencies,' read the PSA. For more information on burning regulations or to apply for a fire permit, visit


CBC
19-05-2025
- Climate
- CBC
Winnipeg lifts fire ban after some rain, colder weather
A fire ban that was in place in the City of Winnipeg has expired. The city said in a release Monday that the ban barring residents from using some barbecues, among other activities, will not be renewed. The two-week ban went into effect on May 5 amid a higher-than-normal number of grass fires earlier this spring, according to the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service. Open fires, backyard fire pits, fireworks and fire pits in city parks as well as the use of solid fuel-burning appliances were not allowed during the two-week period. "The conditions right now didn't lead to extending that fire ban," said Lisa Gilmour, assistant chief of community risk reduction with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service. "We've got some precipitation, the temperatures aren't as hot, the winds aren't as strong, and the precipitation … was over an extended period of time and a lot of it was kind of able to be absorbed into the ground."


CBC
13-05-2025
- Climate
- CBC
Fire bans are no joke as grass fires, wildfires burn in Manitoba
Grass fires and wildfires are threatening people across the province and in different parts of Winnipeg. Crews from B.C. have arrived to help, and officials are urging people to obey fire bans.