With winter’s snows receding and as conditions begin to dry out across the region, the Pembroke Fire Department is warning residents to take extra care when disposing of smoking materials, citing the risk of preventable fires.
Fire officials say improperly discarded smoking materials like cigarettes remain a leading cause of fires across Ontario, including fires that can quickly spread from outdoor areas into homes. Locally, crews respond to these types of calls each year, often with varying degrees of damage.
“These incidents often begin outside — on patios, in planters or in dry grass — before moving into nearby structures,” the department noted in a recent release, adding that warmer weather and increased outdoor activity can heighten the risk.
Fire Chief Scott Selle said the danger is both real and avoidable.
“Every single one of these fires is preventable,” Selle said. “A cigarette tossed into a flowerpot, onto a deck, or out a car window can smoulder unnoticed and turn into a major emergency. As we enter the spring season, the combination of dry vegetation and windy days makes safe disposal more important than ever.”
Residents are being urged to take simple precautions, including fully extinguishing cigarettes in a non-combustible container filled with sand or water, and avoiding disposal in planters, mulch or garbage cans where materials can easily ignite. Smokers are also reminded not to light up near dry grass, porches or exterior walls, and to never toss cigarette butts from a vehicle.
Maintaining outdoor spaces by clearing away combustible debris can also help reduce the risk of fire spreading, officials say.
Selle emphasized that even small actions can have serious consequences.
“Our goal each and everyday is to keep Pembroke safe. Something as small as an ember can put lives, homes, and entire neighbourhoods at risk. We’re asking everyone to do their part.”
For more information, residents can contact the Pembroke Fire Department or follow updates on social media.