Coastal Fire Centre to rescind open burn prohibitions
Citing recent rainfall and cooler temperatures, the Coastal Fire Centre announced Thursday morning that all open fires will once again be permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction beginning at noon on Friday, Sept. 29, 2017
The current climate conditions have reduced wildfire risks in the region to the extent that Category 2 open fires and Category 3 open fires will be permitted, as well as the use of tiki torches, burn barrels, fireworks, sky lanterns and binary exploding targets, Coastal Fire Centre spokesperson Marg Drysdale said in a news release.
Previously, the campfire ban that had been in place in the Coastal Fire Centre for the summer was lifted on Sept. 18.
Residents are cautioned that local governments may still have their own burning restrictions in place, so people should always check with local authorities before lighting any fire of any size. Anyone lighting a Category 3 fire must first obtain a burn registration number by calling 1-888-797-1717. A Category 3 fire is a fire that burns material more than two metres high or three metres wide, stubble or grass over more than 2,000 square metres, or more than two piles of any size.
A poster explaining the different categories of open fires is available online at: ow.ly/jdO5301kS32.
Anyone who lights a fire must comply with B.C.’s air quality control legislation, the release stated. The BC Wildfire Service urges people to take the following precautions with any permitted outdoor burning:
- Ensure that enough people, water and tools are on hand to control the fire and stop it escaping.
- Do not burn in windy conditions. The weather can change quickly and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires.
- Create a fire guard around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Make sure that your fire is fully extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before you leave the area for any length of time.
