A complete fire ban was placed on all of Haliburton County last week, and with that, anyone caught starting a fire will be slapped with a hefty fine.
The municipalities of Haliburton County are urging residents and cottagers to take the ban seriously. If the fire department is dispatched to a fire during the ban, whoever started the fire will face a minimum fine of $459.00.
The fee breaks down to $459 an hour, per truck, based on rates decided by the Ministry of Transportation, according to the Dysart Fire Department. Depending on the severity of the fire, the fee and cost will continue to go up the more length of time it takes to put out.
A reminder that a complete fire ban includes campfires, bonfires, fireworks and an open flame of any kind, including for cooking or warmth.