Sooke had a close call with wildfire this week and is urging residents to take extra precautions.
At approximately 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16 Sooke Fire Rescue responded to a brush fire near Glinz Lake Road and Highway 14.
"Thanks to the quick action of residents who reported the fire and the coordinated response from Sooke Fire Rescue and mutual aid partners from Metchosin, the blaze was swiftly contained," said the district in a news release.
The blaze was contained to an area of about 170 square metres – roughly half the size of a 25-metre public swimming pool.
“The fire service is grateful for the community’s alertness and the dedication of all responding crews,” says Deputy Fire Chief Chris McCrea.
“This incident is a clear reminder of the current heightened wildfire hazard. Community awareness and teamwork are critical to keeping Sooke safe.”
Authorities believed that the fire was human caused, and highlights the importance of adhering to fire restrictions and taking extreme caution during the continuing dry period.
Sooke's fire danger rating is currently at extreme, which indicates that forest fuels are exceptionally dry and ignition is likely. The district is actively monitoring weather conditions and will respond with additional measures to support community safety if necessary.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts to receive real-time notification through Alertable, the district's notification service. Visit sooke.ca/alert to register.
To help prevent wildfires, residents should know a campfire ban is in effect. Open burning, fireworks, sky lanterns and burning barrels are prohibited as well. Non-compliance with fire bans and restrictions may result in fines starting at $1,150, with higher penalties possible.
Residents have also been asked to avoid using lawnmowers, trimmers, or other equipment that may spark near dry vegetation. Finally, residents are asked to dispose of cigarettes safely and never on the ground or in planters.
