Controlled burns to clear dead weeds is common in the spring, but there have been instances when the burn got out of control.
Chatham-Kent Assistant Fire Chief Bob Davidson says controlled burns need a permit issued by the fire department, and it comes with conditions.
"Proximity to vegetation or structures is taken into account before the permit is issued," he says. "The permit holder has to keep a method of extinguishment on hand, monitor the fire and be there at all times and they have to have a means of calling 911."
As well, Davidson says fires aren't legal if the wind is over 30 km/h or would blow smoke across roadways.
