News Release - Fire Department Tracking Suspicious Fires on Municipal Property

(GREATER NAPANEE, ON) – The Greater Napanee Fire Department is reminding residents that open-air fires remain prohibited on all Town-owned municipal property following five separate suspicious fire incidents that have occurred in municipal parks and public spaces over the past month. 

 

On October 2, 2026, the Town announced a prohibition on open-air fires on municipal property to reduce fire risks and help protect the community. The prohibition was introduced in response to an increase in illegal fires in municipal parks and public spaces, with the Greater Napanee Fire Department responding to 20 illegal fires related to encampments so far this year on municipal and private property.  

 

The prohibition includes all open-air fires in public parks and green spaces, including campfires and fires used for cooking, warmth, or recreation. The ban does not include fires on private property, which are permitted with a burn permit. 

 

Over the past few weeks, a series of suspicious fires has prompted the Greater Napanee Fire Department to forward its concerns to the OPP. 

 

In line with recent action to ban all fires on municipal property, Greater Napanee Mayor Terry Richardson intends to direct staff to include enhanced fire prevention measures in park spaces in the 2027 Municipal Budget. 

 

"With the increase in fire-related incidents our Fire Department has responded to this year, I have asked staff to consider additional fire risk reduction measures as part of the 2027 budget process," said Mayor Terry Richardson. "My commitment is to help ensure our public spaces remain safe for everyone. By taking measures to reduce fire risks, we can better protect residents, municipal property, and neighbouring residential properties located near our parks and public spaces." 

 

The Town is asking residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving fires on municipal property. The most recent fires that have occurred over the last month are currently being investigated by the Greater Napanee Fire Department and the OPP. 

 

The public is reminded to call 9-1-1 immediately if a fire is spreading, if vegetation, a vehicle, tent, or structure is on fire, if someone is in danger, or if there is an immediate threat to public safety. For safety, the public should not approach the fire, enter an encampment, or confront anyone involved.  

 

For more information about open-air burning regulations, visit the Town's website. 

Media Contact: 

Kylie Huffman  

Community Engagement & Communications Coordinator  

Town of Greater Napanee 

T: 613-776-1116 

E: khuffman@greaternapanee.com  

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