CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C – After a hot, dry week of weather, BC is now moving into it’s second stage of fire restrictions.
The British Columbia Wildfire Service released a statement last week saying that category two open fires are now prohibited.
Under the restrictions, only open fires smaller than 0.5 metres wide and 0.5 metres high are allowed.
Fireworks, firecrackers, sky lanterns and burning barrels are not permitted.
Binary exploding targets, like the ones used for rifle target practice, are also banned.
In the statement, Campbell River fire chief Ian Baikie specifically pointed out the dangers of fireworks and sky lanterns.
“Some people are tempted to enjoy sky lanterns and private fireworks for Canada Day, but these restricted activities can cause serious injury and property damage,” says Baikie.
“When they return to earth – wherever the wind carries them – they can ignite fires, threatening homes, property, forests and wildlife. Similarly, fireworks and firecrackers can easily spark a wildfire during dry conditions.”
For recreational fires, the CR Fire Department issued a list of what residents need to know in order to safely enjoy fires.
- Recreational fires must be no larger than 24 inches (60 centimeters) in diameter.
- Recreational beach fires (still permitted within City limits) must be lit below the high tide line.
- Maintain a fireguard around the fire – a fuel free area where all flammable materials have been removed.
- Ensure you have easy access to at least eight litres of water and/or a shovel for fire control.
- Completely extinguish the fire (ashes cold to touch) before leaving the area.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- CSA or ULC-rated cooking stoves and portable campfires that use gas, propane or briquettes are allowed.
Although recreational fires are currently permitted, during dry, hot conditions the Campbell River Fire Department may restrict or ban them.
The city will still be holding a public fireworks display, overseen by the fire department.
