The City of Sarnia is extending its recreational fire ban.
Set to expire May 3, the pandemic ban issued April 3, will continue until May 31 pending implementation of the first stage of the provincial government's plan to reopen the economy.
The order prohibits backyard recreational fires, open fires or cooking fires but rural burn permits will be issued to support farming operations within the city boundaries, allowing the clearing of brush to prepare farm fields.
Sarnia Fire Chief Brian Arnold appealed to residents to be patient.
“We understand the desire to sit outside and relax around a fire with members of your home and the frustration felt by some,” said Arnold. “We appreciate your continued patience and thank everyone who is sacrificing for us all. Please stay the course a little longer as we look for indicators from the province and medical officer of health to ease restrictions.”
A news release from the city Friday said, "The premier of Ontario and Lambton’s medical officer of health are both encouraging that our communities stay the course until there is a sustained two-to-four-week decrease in new COVID-19 cases and related hospitalizations. With over 180 confirmed cases of COVID-19 that led to 14 deaths and 3 institutional outbreaks to date, Sarnia is one of the communities within the province of Ontario that has been hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic."
The outdoor fire ban was implemented to protect the safety of first responders and enforce physical distancing measures in place to stop the spread of the virus.