CAMPBELL RIVER, BC- With wild fire season around the corner the fire departments are looking for residents cooperation.
The fire department is concerned about the dry season BC has had, according to fire chief Thomas Doherty.
“We’ve seen far less rain than usual so far this year, and the fire department has been responding to a number of calls about open burning in violation of the City bylaw,” said Doherty.
“We’re asking people thinking about a recreational fire of backyard burning to refresh themselves about the rules of open burning.”
There has been an increase in calls to the fire department in relation to fire violations.
“The fire department has responded to a steep increase in burning complaints in the past few weeks,” said Doherty.
“Many of those fires were in violation of the City’s Clean Air Bylaw, and most people burning said they were not aware of the bylaw and restriction in place.”
It is not only backyard fires that the fire department is looking out for.
“The fire department is also called to a high number of recreational beach fires this time of year,” Doherty says.
“Beach fires are also regulated, and people could be fined for violations. The main infraction we’re seeing with beach fires right now is that they’re often larger than what’s permitted, and they’re left unattended. This creates a public safety hazard as there’s a potential for these fires to spread to neighbouring properties.”
The fire department is encouraging residents to review the rules around open burning, click here to check the fire restrictions.
“Please consider the impact of a recreational fire on neighbours, and avoid locations close to homes and buildings,” Doherty adds.
“If you are going to have a fire on the beach, be sure to take a bucket with you for carrying water to ensure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area.”
