Fire Safety

Despite the rain we’ve received over the past 24 hours, our local fire danger rating will remain at MODERATE.

There are currently no restrictions on high risk activities. That being said, it would be wise to be cautious when performing high risk activities. Make sure you have fire suppression equipment nearby and ready, work in a fire safe location, and be aware of the potential fire hazards, abating them when possible. A one hour fire watch is required at all times when the fire danger rating is at Moderate.

Category 2 fires are still restricted, and will likely stay that way until the fall. Specifically, this prohibition applies to:
* the burning of any material (piled or unpiled) smaller than two metres high and three metres wide, excluding a campfire (smaller than 0.5m high and 0.5m in diameter);
* the burning of stubble or grass over an area less than 2,000 square metres;
* the use of fireworks, firecrackers, sky lanterns, burning barrels or burning cages of any size or description; and
* the use of binary exploding targets (e.g., for rifle target practice).

While campfires are technically still allowed, it would be a poor choice to light one. If you choose to have a campfire, or see someone with a campfire, there are regulations that need to be followed:

* the fire must be smaller than 0.5m high by 0.5m in diameter

* have at least 8L of water or a hand tool on hand at all times while you campfire is lit

* never leave a fire unattended

* you must have a fuel break around your campfire. This area must be cleared of debris and anything combustible. It needs to be wide enough to stop the spread of the fire

* before you leave the area for any amount of time, your campfire MUST be fully extinguished. The ashes of your fire must be cool to the touch. 

* do not light a fire in windy conditions

If you have any questions you can contact Coastal Fire Centre at 250-951-4222 or the local Fire Warden (Ben).